Echoes of the West: An American Cowboy Project

A powerful photographic journey capturing the heart, soul, and grit of the men and women who continue to live and work the land in the spirit of the American West. Through fine art portraiture and authentic storytelling, this project honors the legacy of today’s working cowboys and ranchers—those who carry forward a way of life that shaped our nation.

As a lifelong Nevadan, photographer Mikel Conrad has always felt a deep connection to the land, tradition, and the people who quietly keep the West alive. This project began as a tribute, not just to the iconic image of the cowboy, but to the real people behind the dust, the cattle drives, the saddles, and the sun-weathered faces. These portraits are more than photographs—they are living documents of a proud, fading legacy.

Each image in Echoes of the West is created with care and intention. Mikel captures cowboys and ranchers in their element: branding cattle, tending horses, riding the range, or simply reflecting after a long day’s work. Whether it’s a quiet black-and-white portrait or a sweeping action scene at sunrise, every photo tells a story of strength, independence, and timeless American grit.

This is more than a photo series—it’s a historical preservation effort. In addition to showcasing these portraits in art galleries and fine art collections, the project will be published in a hardbound book filled with images, quotes, and personal stories from the people photographed. The goal is to document their wisdom, values, and lifestyle before it fades into memory.