On this anniversary of Mississippi's admission to the union in 1817, I launch a blog about my new home in Oxford, MS. These first few posts come from work for my documentary photography class. Have peek!
When Southern Studies 533 confronted me with the task of portraying work and leisure in the South, I balked. I was new to town, new to the university, and primed to delve into all kinds of fun. The last thing I wanted to do was interrupt some busy people to get their story and fumble with camera settings to take their picture. But all that fun comes at a price, a price worth recognizing. Always, someone’s labor supports our good time, that pleasurable past time, that wild party or some good eating. Some folks work these jobs because they have to. Some have managed to create a livelihood out of something they love. We might envy those people when in reality a lot of sweat went into building their businesses. This blog entry peeks into the that world, the world of work behind our fun.
When Southern Studies 533 confronted me with the task of portraying work and leisure in the South, I balked. I was new to town, new to the university, and primed to delve into all kinds of fun. The last thing I wanted to do was interrupt some busy people to get their story and fumble with camera settings to take their picture. But all that fun comes at a price, a price worth recognizing. Always, someone’s labor supports our good time, that pleasurable past time, that wild party or some good eating. Some folks work these jobs because they have to. Some have managed to create a livelihood out of something they love. We might envy those people when in reality a lot of sweat went into building their businesses. This blog entry peeks into the that world, the world of work behind our fun.
As I acquainted myself with my new town, I visited an Ole Miss football game, an Oxford garage, and two legendary Oxford area restaurants. I also spent some time interviewing and photographing a local musician and African American entrepreneur, as well as both of the owners of an independent record shop in Memphis, Tennessee that enjoys an international cult following. Each of these people and places tell a different story about the kind of work behind our leisure time. Some worked to live while others lived to work. You decide which one of subjects fits which expression.
What is more iconic than hitting an Ole Miss football game? I visited Vaught-Hemingway Stadium where Ole Miss took on Fresno State.
Before the game, the university campus fills with tents and tailgaters. Generations of fans carouse from tent to tent As the day progresses, football fervor rises until everyone files into the stadium and cheers on the Rebels. Hotty Toddy!
The Ole Miss Rebel Marching Band took the field before kick-off while the dance team warmed up the crowd. Ole Miss went to win that game by a decisive 55-38 margin.
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Of course all good Rebs fans need sustenance. A hot dog is "essential stadium food."
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| Kari Edwards enjoys a snack. |
But not everyone at the game is having fun...
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| pouring soda under the stands |
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| Cotton candy! |
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| The beer seller shoots me the stink eye. |
Loving them all, from a bloke in a state way south of yours, Victoria Australia. Keep it going girl!
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