Bill Pickett: The Bull Dogger

Honor the legendary Bill Pickett with this striking watercolor tribute to the cowboy who revolutionized the American rodeo forever. This powerful portrait captures the spirit of the man who invented bulldogging through sheer courage and unmatched skill, earning him the honor of being the first African American inducted into both the National Cowboy Hall of Fame and the ProRodeo Hall of Fame.

Born in Texas in 1870 to former enslaved parents, Pickett transformed from a fifth-grade dropout working ranch hands into an international sensation who performed before millions across the United States, Canada, Mexico, South America, and England. His groundbreaking bulldogging technique - inspired by watching herding dogs control cattle - became the foundation for modern steer wrestling, one of rodeo's most iconic events.

As a star performer with the renowned 101 Ranch Wild West Show, Pickett shared the stage with Western legends like Buffalo Bill Cody, Will Rogers, and Tom Mix. Despite facing racial barriers that often forced him to claim Cherokee heritage to compete, his extraordinary talent transcended prejudice and made him a household name. Nicknamed "The Dusky Demon," he captivated audiences with his fearless performances and innovative techniques.

Pickett also broke ground as the first African American cowboy movie star, appearing in silent films "The Bull-Dogger" and "The Crimson Skull" in the early 1920s. His legacy lives on through the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, founded in 1984 to celebrate Black cowboys and their contributions to American Western heritage.

The beautiful blue watercolor splash background and authentic Western styling make this a perfect addition for collectors of Western art, rodeo memorabilia, or anyone inspired by stories of perseverance and pioneering spirit. This tribute celebrates not just Pickett's athletic achievements, but his role in breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.

Available as a quality 17x11 inch unframed print on luxurious 100lb matte paper or elegantly framed (finished frame size: 13.25 x 19.25 inches) in a sophisticated black wood frame with 1.25-inch profile. Each print honors Pickett's enduring impact on American Western culture and the spirit of innovation that defined the frontier era.