Hard Twist: Through the Lens of Barbara Van Cleve
The life of famed photographer Barbara Van Cleve, now 90, comes into sharp focus in this celebratory documentary. Known for her insightful photographs of the American West’s ranching culture, Van Cleve’s creative journey began on her family’s Montana spread where she grew up learning to ride, rope, and run and brand cattle. Even as she taught English literature at university, she followed her creative path as a chronicler of the transformation of the American West. She embraced life as an independent artist, an advocate for women ranchers, and a proud leader in a photographic genre long considered the domain of men. Never-before-seen archival footage of early Montana along with Van Cleve’s photographs offer insight into an enduring and rugged lifestyle. This film celebrates the life of a remarkable woman who devoted her life to telling the story of camaraderie and sisterhood in a rapidly changing landscape. —Kelly Clement
Director/s
Cynthia Matty-Huber
Award-winning director and cinematographer Cynthia Matty-Huber is known for her films that capture the American West’s rugged beauty and vanishing lifestyles. While completing her MFA at Montana State University, she discovered her passion–creating films that are a tribute to the hard-working individuals who devote their lives to the West. This focus guided her multiple award-winning short For the Love of the Land (2021), about an elderly rancher confronting loneliness and mortality.
Expected Guests
CYNTHIA MATTY-HUBER • Director