Michigan Barn with Herefords

This is a barn in Lenawee County, Michigan, that I photographed the last time we painted in the area. Michigan is full of old picturesque and unique buildings and barns, many of them constructed of stone. This barn seems to have been abandoned and the Herefords weren't actually there. I added them because I like to see a little bit of life in paintings and I think animals add interest. I'll often throw in a cat or someone walking their dog if the picture is too static.

9" x 12" Michigan Barn

Updating an Older Painting

Often I'll save a painting in the back of my closet, knowing it needs something, but unsure of what. When I have a few minutes I'll pull it out and evaluate it from the perspective of time. I did that with this painting, a plein air piece from August, that seemed a bit lackluster.

I decided it needed some signs of life so I added a few Holsteins and a fence so they woudln't run out into the road. I'm happier with it now.