A Lifetime of Making Art

As David Ray Farmer, ’69, says, “Art is not a good way to make a living, but it is a great way to live life.” He would know. He’s been an oil painter for more than 30 years, and more than 1,500 of his paintings have been marketed around America and in other countries during that time. He is currently an artist-in-residence at the Art Center of the Bluegrass in Danville, Kentucky, the city where he resides.

Why did you decide to enroll at Cumberlands?

I grew up in the area; the college was recommended by friends. My high school grades were so bad that I didn’t attempt college at first. But after the Army, Cumberlands accepted me under the G.I. Bill. I doubt I would have been admitted elsewhere. I went to art school earlier in the 1960s, served in the Army, then went to Cumberlands. Then I worked until 1993, when I retired and started painting full time.

Tell us about your campus experience.

I appreciated the easy rapport with staff, teachers, and students. My favorite faculty and staff were Dr. Unthank, Dr. and Mrs. Boswell, Dr. Broome, Dr. Wiggins, Mr. Shields, Mrs. Wilder, and Mr. R. Parker. I was an editor of “The Echo” (campus paper at the time) and a member of student council. I learned a lot at Cumberlands, but the most important life lesson I took away is that time management, determination, and discipline are as important as talent and intelligence.

What does being an artist-in-residence entail?

Being an in-house, working artist accessible to the public, as part of the art center’s community service. I have a studio at home and a studio in the art gallery, so, when I show up to the gallery, I walk upstairs into my studio and get to work.

Are you usually in person with the subject of your painting, or do you typically paint using something as a reference?

Except for still life paintings, I mainly use photo references. I still have Polaroids from the '60s. My wife Carrie and I have traveled throughout central and southeastern Kentucky for many years, with her taking photos for reference. I do a lot of house and building portraits, and she is good at getting the right compositions. I work on site infrequently to establish composition, but seldom do I get a good painting on site. Almost everything is completed in studio.

Do you admire any artists in particular?

I admire the late 19th century and early 20th century American painters. They were true craftsmen. Among living artists, Richard Schmid is a favorite; I have been trying to emulate him for years. Also John S. Sargent, Robert Henri, Anders Zorn, Joaquin Sorolla (we spent a day in his home studio in Madrid, Spain), Degas, Rothko, and most of the Impressionists.

Many of your paintings are of scenes in nature. Why?

Terrain is character. I grew up in southeastern Kentucky and have always felt part of the terrain, and painting is a way of being part of it. I’m also always inspired by the old architecture around these areas. I’ve painted plenty of houses and other buildings that were important landmarks to me or to other people, such as an old grocery store that used to be along the road that led from Whitley County up to Cincinnati, Ohio. (This was before I-75 existed.) When we used to visit Cincinnati, the store was a good stopping place for refreshments and that sort of thing.

Tell us about your painting experience.

I use oil paint because it is the most versatile and manipulative painting medium available, with great range of color choices. How long a painting takes depends on the subject and the size. It can take anywhere from two hours to two weeks. Over the years, I have gained greater color perception and manual dexterity. The biggest challenges I’ve faced as an artist have been time management and marketing. I’ve learned to avoid TV, movies, and casual relationships. I associate mainly with other artists.

During the pandemic, creative activities like art made a comeback among non-artists who were stuck inside and needing outlets for self-expression. Do you think it's important for people to express themselves through art? If so, why?

Everyone should attempt something for “play” such as art. The subconscious is awaiting expression – another aspect of self.

You've been an artist for 30+ years. How do you continue to find inspiration? How do you continue to challenge yourself?

I am inspired by the goal of becoming better each year; there is no ceiling.

What kind of response do you receive from people who view your artwork?

Many of my paintings are in medical buildings and corporate offices. I continually receive word about the sentiments evoked. Sometimes those who receive paintings share photos of my work on social media and thank me for making the piece. I enjoy the conversations that sometimes follow from that kind of recognition.

Looking for something to do this summer? Make plans to visit David Farmer at the Art Center of the Bluegrass in Danville, Kentucky.

Visit artcenterky.org/2019/07/david-farmer/