Soule: An Ugly Wall Becomes a Work of Art

A few weeks ago, we had a contractor build a wall of enormous concrete blocks to contain our cattle in the barnyard and create storage space for the sand we use for their “bedding.” Unlike our fences, which always seem to be falling down, this wall is built for the ages.

But it was really ugly – partially painted, stained with water, and covered in dirt. And for a place like Miles Smith Farm, where we are forever inviting people to visit and admire our picturesque cattle, that is a problem.

Where one person sees ugliness, another sees potential. Farmworker Diane Hersey suggested a mural would brighten the barnyard and help disguise the unsightly blocks. Since I could barely draw stick figures, outside expertise was needed.

One Facebook post later, I re-connected with artist Jim Luckern of Manchester. Jim suggested we pressure-wash the blocks, and two days later, he showed up with paints, a brush, and many ideas.

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Carole Soule is co-owner of Miles Smith Farm, where she raises and sells pork, raw milk, eggs, and beef. She can be reached at carole@soulecoaching.com. Visitors are welcome to the farm at 55 Whitehouse Rd, Loudon, NH, on Friday and Saturday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.