A Barn Study

Barns have always held a special fascination for me. Perhaps it’s from my childhood and the memories of playing in the old barn (and sledding off the roof peak in a year of nearly overwhelming snowfall in the 1960’s) on my grandparent’s farm in Iowa. There is something almost majestic about these buildings – especially when reflecting on the tremendous community effort, the quality of workmanship, and the incredible materials that went into these structures. On our frequent travels around the State of Wisconsin and in the heart of the dairyland, it’s a joy for me to see all the beautifully maintained and restored barns.

This weekend, I’ll be heading across the state to participate in a Plein Air Painting workshop in Cedarburg, WI. Led by one of my artist mentors, Spencer Meagher, the one-day workshop promises to be an excellent time of learning the logistics and intricacies of painting outdoors. According to the workshop description, we need to plan ahead to be portable with our supplies and be prepared to paint in any type of weather – rain or shine!

I hope my painting, Gathering Storm, 9” x 12”  Watercolor, reflects the strength and durability of an old barn. With its stone foundation and weathered boards, it continues to bear testimony to the ingenuity and hard work of a bygone era.