Charros de Colorado
A contemporary survey of Charrería as practiced in the American West.
Selections from the archive of photographer and filmmaker Chris Sessions.
Developed between 2012–present.
Charros de Colorado is a long-form documentary project centered on Charrería, the national sport of Mexico. With origins dating back centuries, Charrería combines equestrian skill, ceremony, and tradition, and is widely recognized as a precursor to Western Rodeo in the United States.
I was first introduced to the practice while documenting long-standing traditions at county fairs throughout Colorado. What began as a project focused on small-town communities gradually led me into a growing Charrería community—one practicing a sport and cultural tradition I initially knew very little about.
Over time—through persistence, trust, and invitation—I was welcomed by families who opened their private events and competitions to me. For more than a decade, I have attended over a hundred charreadas across Colorado, as well as in California and Mexico, working to preserve a living history and reflect the athleticism, ceremony, and sense of belonging that carry this timeless tradition forward.
Chris Sessions, 2026
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Exhibit:
Center Of The American West
Boulder, Colorado
This project exists through the generosity, trust, and continued invitation of the families and communities who practice Charrería across Colorado.
For exhibition, publication, or licensing inquiries:
chris@chrissessionsphotography.com