Roving circuses, in one form or another, have been enthralling cities and towns throughout the United States since the late 18th century. Despite the emergence of sophisticated, high-tech shows in the 20th century, a contingent of more modest regional companies preserve many of the age-old traditions. These circuses, where multi-talented crews appear under a canvas tent and feature acts illuminated by a single spotlight. Traveling from town to town these enterprises eke out just enough profit to survive the season. We owe these circuses a debt of gratitude, for it is they who maintain the essence of the past while adapting to the present. The Flynn Creek Circus, documented here, is one such special survivor. I am fortunate that my small northern California town has been a stop on their circuit every year for the past eight years. During this time, I have gotten to know many of the performers and have been warmly welcomed into their 'back-stage' lives.
In this series, I explore the performances, private moments and hard physical work required to be a part of a traveling circus. From putting up and taking down the 'big top' to never ending practice sessions, these entertainers live exhausting multidimensional lives.
Photographically, I am drawn to the athleticism of the performers but it is their solidarity to their performance art that strikes me most. These wild social misfits have found family and purpose in their work and it has been my pleasure to document their sincere love and devotion to their craft.
I never tire of the primary colors, the smell of canvas, straw and sweat. Most of all I appreciate the fanatical devotion these performers bring to their work. I invite the viewer to share in these artist's moments and, if only for a few minutes, run off with me to the circus.
Clark James Mishler
Clark James Mishler is a documentary portrait photographer based in Calistoga, California. After graduating from the Art Center College of Design in LA in the 1970s, Clark worked as a photo editor for National Geographic magazine. In the early 1980’s, he relocated to Anchorage, Alaska where he spent four decades as Alaska’s premier environmental portrait photographer — capturing images for editorial, corporate, and fine art clients. His work has been featured in numerous books and leading periodicals, including Time, National Geographic and Smithsonian Air & Space. His photographs are permanently displayed at the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. and his 2013 one-man show and corresponding award-winning book, Portrait Alaska, was featured at the Anchorage Museum.
After settling down in Calistoga with his wife in 2016, Clark has spent the last period of his career focusing on the production of documentary and archival fine art imagery. In 2022, The Scott Nichols Gallery published Clark's limited edition portfolio featuring the Amish of Lancaster, PA. His ability to capture the essence of individuals and communities continues to awe viewers.
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