Fair Oaks farm has been a significant part of my life for fifteen years. I happened upon it by accident at a fundraiser. One of my farmer friends asked me to go with his family. The moment we turned into the long driveway, lined with ancient, moss draped live oaks and cabbage palms, I was hooked for life.The old house stood on a massive front lawn, shaded and full of flowers for the occasion. Tables with white linens were scattered around. The huge front porch held a blue grass band in full costume.

Eventually the steward of Fair Oaks got around to our table and we were introduced properly. I learned that other artists used an upstairs room in the old house as a studio. I was invited to join in as a resident artist at Fair Oaks. That day began as the significant part of my career as a painter, though I had painted all my life.

During the 20 years I have painted at Fair Oaks, I have explored every inch of her great land. There is a great diversity there, including wetlands, a sapling prairie, pine stands, palm hammocks, and upland hardwoods. Many birds call Fair Oaks home, as well as indigenous species of animals.

There is no livestock on the property, only the beloved Border Collies, and it is managed with great care. All invasive species of plants have been relentlessly stamped out. It is one of the few remaining tracts of land in Florida that I would know as primal.

The old house was a guest house during the Civil War era. The main house was burned, though the cistern is still on the property. During those residency days I was allowed to live in the old house for one week every year. What a thrill it was!

About four years ago, the renovation of the old house was completed. It is now a true mansion, filled with priceless antiques. Beautiful beyond words, but I miss the old, shabby girl she used to be, and the studio. It was shabby, with a large table, easels scattered around, and a threadbare rug on the floor. I spent many happy days there with the pups and with my pup too. Now my residency is in cozy Mulberry Cottage, part of the farm property. I look forward to it each fall.

A few years ago, Fair Oaks Foundation, Inc. was created to help educate and preserve a way of life that places like Fair Oaks make possible. The foundation sponsors musicians, artists, farm to table, rural crafters, science, conservation efforts, and sustainable living practices. Please join us for the “We Love Birds“ party fundraiser on February 15, 2025. We need volunteers and sponsors.

This country painter loves Fair Oaks…

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