“Wildlife provides us with a visual exercise in light and shade. Using high-speed film and experimental dark room techniques, this North American bison was isolated from its natural habitat and surrounded with pure white. This allows the viewer to examine the rich texture of physical characteristics as well as personality. Even after near extinction, the buffalo shows remarkable characteristics which have enabled it to thrive in the harsh climate of the Great Plains. This Custer State Park bull exudes the quiet confidence of an animal with no serious predators until the arrival of mankind.”
- Ray Tysdal
- Repose, 1997
- Selenium-toned gelatin silver print
- Framed: 22 x 28 in (55.88 x 71.12 cm)
Although born in Nebraska, Ray Tysdal has lived and photographed in the Black Hills for decades. Despite his degrees in journalism and secondary education, he has spent more time working as a gold miner, farmer, and sheep ranch hand. He also spent time working on the first federally sponsored irrigation project in the United States as a ditch rider, watermaster, and dam tender. A lifetime of hiking, fishing, hunting, farming, and livestock handling has given Ray an understanding and appreciation of the visual richness of his environment.
- Current Location: State Capitol Building - Governor’s Bear Butte Small Conference Room and Reception Area - 500 E Capitol Ave PIERRE, SD 57501 (google map)
- Collections: Art For State Buildings