Thursday, October 16, 2008


Red Wall, Blue Sky

Acrylic on board, 5" x 7"
$125.00 + $6.00 shipping in US.
SOLD

Rural architecture around here is usually pretty straightforward and no-nonsense, you don't see a lot of ornamentation. This complex of buildings no doubt grew organically according to need, form following function.

But the beauty in these austerely simple shapes is undeniable. I couldn't resist the wonderful geometry of afternoon shadows, and the intensity of those red walls against the blue sky.

10 comments:

Cooper Dragonette said...

You're a man after my own heart with this one Don!

Diana Moses Botkin said...

I love this too, Don. I'm so glad you saw it and put it on canvas!

artistbarb said...

This is a scene that many would overlook, but I'm glad you didnot. I am sure function was foremost to the form when these were built. Shelter trumped art form on these farms. It was only later people who came along the way appreciated what they saw in them, dont you think? To me, they stir feelings of nostalgia for days gone by. Barb

Don Gray said...

Hi Cooper--thanks a bunch!

Don Gray said...

Thanks, Diana.

Don Gray said...

I agree, Barb. Maybe they couldn't go too far wrong with form following function, but I think these "unschooled" farmer/builders often showed an eye for satisfying design and proportion that rivaled a trained architect's.

Sylvia Jenstad said...

I agree this is one cool painting...

Don Gray said...

Hi Sylvia--thank you!

Frank Gardner said...

Love how farm buildings seem to grow and connect one building to another.
I know there are a lot in the Northeast that all were connected to get to the animals in the cold winter without going outside. I love looking at them.

Don Gray said...

I've always loved those connected buildings as well, Frank. I'm enjoying your posts on your Maine painting holiday--looks like a great time.