AMERICAN FARM

You won’t find this series on YouTube, but more likely projected upon the face of a grain bin.

My multi-generational family farm was recently sold — except a few dryland acres. Observing farms that are still in operation is both nostalgic for me and a chance to explore my complex relationship with farming.

Whenever restless, I hit the road and drive until the pavement turns to dirt. It’s like reverse hitchhiking. When I see folks out doing chores, I ask if I can hang around for a day and follow what they do with a camera and a mic.

1-day shoot, 2-day edit.

I’m fascinated by the work on a farm. I’m an observer, maybe an intruder, an imposter, but even still— incidental to what is at stake for the day. And my relationship with the farmer evolves. It’s a gift for me and sometimes I think that the farmer notices that that day may be different than other days. Whether talking to themselves, animals, or machinery (rarely to me) wisdom permeates through the lens.

Farms that I have shot and are following: hobby farming, organic farming, factory farming, irrigated/dry land large acre farming, robotic farming, vertical farming, barge farming, cash-only farming -- basically anything that involves dirt, machines, and/or animals.  If you know of other farms and farmers that might be interested in this project, please contact me. I will make it out that way.  

The dryland that’s left on the Harper farm? Stay tuned… you know I’ll be hitting the gravel to see what’s left of the century old farmland. And the POV may be from the cab.