After the Ramsey County Fair in St. Paul, Minnesota was canceled in 2021, I asked fairgoers at other fairs what they would miss most if it were their last year. A common response was the 4-H animal shows, highlighting deep-rooted connections between communities and agriculture.
Rural communities in the U.S. are undergoing significant transformations, with the number of retiring farmers increasing while new farmers are on the decline in Minnesota. As a parent, I am troubled by what this means for the next generation’s understanding of farms, sustainability, and stewardship of the land, especially in the face of climate change. These worries, coupled with the dwindling interest in agriculture among children, motivate my artistic endeavors.
The shift from small family farms to large monoculture operations has had a profound effect on rural America, with county fairs being one of the casualties. Once a vibrant showcase of diverse livestock, some county fairs now see sparse entries in competitions once fierce. Despite diminishing appeal of county fairs to today’s youth, these events remain crucial in passing on life lessons and agricultural traditions.
Drawing inspiration from the works of Dutch painter Pieter Bruegel and American folk artist Grandma Moses, I use a large format camera and studio lighting to capture the essence of contemporary agrarian practices at these remaining country fairs. Through the lens of “in-camera photography,” I aim to shed light on the evolving face of American farming and the importance of preserving its heritage.
Live Action Role Players, Blue Earth County Fair, Minnesota, USA, 2022
Inspired by Minnesota’s rich agricultural traditions, R. J. Kern launched The Last Fair project in 2021, creating portraits of county fairs with a nod to classical painting techniques. Drawing inspiration from artists like Pieter Bruegel and Grandma Moses, the project aims to showcase the vibrant tapestry of rural life at county fairs across Minnesota. No Photoshop or compositing techniques are used to create the series. Studio lighting is used on location to shape shadow and light.
Opichi Drum Corps, Mahnomen County Fair, Mahnomen, Minnesota, 2023
After weeks of planning, a mural-sized photograph was produced on June 30, 2023 at the Mahnomen County Fair— a summer highlight for many agricultural youth in the region. This photograph included over 75 participants from the community— including over a 25 members of the White Earth Nation— which agreed to serve as reciprocal, active participants in the photographic process.
Wabasha County 4-H, Minnesota, 2023
The American family farm is at a critical crossroads, grappling with economic pressures, climate change, and shifting demographics. In “The Last Fair” project, my artistic exploration examines class, community, and identity, focusing on the intricate ties between land, individual experiences, and the shared identity of the Midwest.
Winona County Fair King and Queen, Minnesota, 2023
Each large group photograph requires months of planning to secure the necessary permissions and orchestrate the logistics of gathering participants. Prior to each large-scale photograph, I spend several days at each fair, conducting workshops, public presentations, and exhibitions, while engaging with the individuals who will be part of my photographs. Through these efforts, I aim to capture the essence of these events and the deep-rooted connections between communities and agriculture, with a particular focus on youth and their role in shaping the future of farming.
Santa on Vacation, Benton County Fair, Minnesota, 2022
In the current political climate, the experience of rural youth is rapidly evolving. Communities across rural America, including my home state of Minnesota, are witnessing a troubling trend: aging farmers are retiring without younger generations stepping in to take their place. This generational shift raises pressing concerns about the future of farming, sustainability, and land stewardship, particularly in the face of climate change. These issues, coupled with a declining interest in agriculture among youth, have driven my artistic endeavors since 2012.
4-H Rabbit Judging, Rock County Fair, Minnesota, 2024
From the series, The Last Fair
Taya with Stella, Kandiyohi County Fair, Minnesota, 2024
From the series, The Last Fair
Rock County Fair, Minnesota, 2022
From the series, The Last Fair
Houston County 4-H, Minnesota, 2023
From the series, The Last Fair
Douglas County 4-H, Douglas County Fair, Minnesota, USA, 2024
The transition from small family farms to large-scale monoculture operations has profoundly impacted rural America. Traditional events like county fairs have also experienced significant changes. Once vibrant showcases of diverse livestock and agricultural practices, many county fairs now struggle with dwindling entries and a lack of engagement from younger participants. Despite these challenges, county fairs remain essential for passing on agricultural traditions, imparting life lessons, and fostering a sense of community.