We sat down with photographer Dolly Faibyshev, who we're very excited to introduce to ArtStar collectors to talk to her the story behind Pink Pants Poodle and watching cowboys bite the dust.

AS: Pink Pants Poodle is an amazing photograph. Can you tell us the story behind it?

DF: Thanks! I first noticed the pants on this woman walking her dog to a makeshift break area, so I followed her. I also tend to favor the perfect mix of glamour and over-the-top ridiculousness that poodles represent. If they didn’t require hours of grooming, I’d own one in every size and color.

AS: Rodeo Man was taken at your first Rodeo which must have been an intense experience as a photographer. What was the atmosphere like?

DF: It’s kind of a sickening rush watching the Rodeo up close. At one point, a spectator looked over at me and yelled “I’m rootin’ for the bulls!” with a crazed look in his eye. It’s disturbing at first, but watching the cowboys eat it is sadly the highlight of the show.

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AS: Your work involves an element of portraiture, but of unconventional things instead of people. What do you look for when you're shooting an event?

DF: I usually look for a balance of humor and color and try to catch moments that tell a story. I feel that body language can show as much, and often more, than a facial expression.

AS: You seem drawn to distinctly American places, like Palm Springs, and experience, like rodeos and dog shows. What appeals to you about these spaces and cultural groups?

DF: As an American born to Russian immigrants, the vicarious fantasy of America became ingrained in me from an early age. I think that’s the reason I look for meaning in these niche environments that represent a bigger picture of the American Dream.

AS: Where to next? Can you tell us about any upcoming projects?

DF: I’m recovering from my latest round at the Westminster Dog show earlier this month, but I’m working to expand on some works in progress.

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Dolly with her book, Palm Springs: Mid-Century Modern published by Schiffer.

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