I try to tell a story with my art and I want to share some
of the stories behind the sculptures I have created. chrisnavarro.com
WHEN CHAMPIONS MEET Bronze, 38’’ x 23.5’’ x 15’’ Monumental
Bronze, 15’ x 11’ x 7’
Located in Greeley, Colorado, the Greeley Independence
Stampede is known as the world's largest Fourth of July rodeo. I was
commissioned to create the monumental sculpture When Champions Meet for the
stampede’s 75th anniversary in 1997. The sculpture depicts saddle bronc riding,
often referred to as “the classic event of rodeo.” The horse is rocketing out
of the chutes, with a rider balanced in the mark-out position. What you see is
a champion bucking horse against a champion cowboy in a beautiful, wild dance.
I have probably sculpted more cowboys riding bucking horses than any other
subject. There's always something epic about a horse trying to throw a man off
of his back.
Rodeo is more about trying than anything else. A man or
women with guts and heart can become anything in this world they want or
desire, because to be a champion, all you have to give is all you got.
WHEN CHAMPIONS MEET
They say I've drawn a champion bronc that no one can ride.
Well, I'm a champion, too, and I’ve got just as much pride.
So I guess I'll take my chances and nod for the gate,
‘Cause it gives my life meaning, being in this wild dance
with fate.
By Chris Navarro
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