A Girl and An Elder
Photo by David Yarrow
The day I met Grant Bulltail was the day I became a better person..
Two years ago I was scouting a Native Man for a photo shoot in Montana. I introduced myself to some locals in downtown Billings. By nine the next morning, I met my new friends for breakfast to discuss our vision. I knew I wanted someone of stature and Integrity, and that’s exactly what I got. In my first conversation with Grant I explained what our crew was doing and he immediately jumped on board. I drove an hour to pick him up at his home in Hardin Montana. To this day, I know this happened as it was supposed to.
Grant greeted me at the door, hugged me, and welcomed me in to meet his lovely wife Linda. I asked him about regalia and he explained its sacred meaning. We drove a couple hours to the location where we would shoot. During our drive he told me all about his life, our earth, his children, stories of his grandfather and the energy of the Buffalo. I remember feeling so blessed.. And also embarrassed. Here I was, a Montana girl growing up right next to the reservation and knew nothing of the beauty and stories behind this beautiful culture. When we arrived to the shoot it was a bit crazy, I felt proud but protective of Grant as we prepared quietly in the back room. His nature was calm even though I was throwing both of us into unknown chaos. I placed a fur over his plaid shirt and felt his courage and ambition to heighten human perception. I will never be able to fully explain what came over me that day, but I do know that I am forever changed.
Grant spoke in detail about his feelings of the Reservation and his hopes for a better future among his people. I stayed in contact with him and months later we shot again, this time in a car outside of Big Timber Montana. He was enthusiastic and continued to share his life, the history of his culture, native tribes, his service in the Marines, and his book. Grant also hoped to see a movie that would re write and share truth of Native American History.
This week my most valued and adored elder passed suddenly of complications due to corona virus. I was going to see him in Montana this month and was looking forward to hearing more stories of wisdom. I know Im not alone in my complete admiration for Grant. I am just one girl sharing my story. His stories and legacy will live on through the many outlets and people he has affected, Especially those among the Crow. Grant taught me more than I ever could’ve imagined, and I will do my best to carry on his example and his hopes.
Grant Bulltail 1940-2020. A gentle soul who touched the Lives of many.