Rules of the Barnyard original collage on canvas

Rules of the Barnyard is based on the fifth bagatelle in Beethoven's opus 33 set, possibly the funniest bagatelle of the set, which meant it needed a chicken.

This unruly rooster has broken down the stone wall that has protected this Irish pasture for centuries, but the lamb seems perfectly content to stay within its bounds and smell the trees. This represents two different sides of Beethoven's nature, and ours.

While Beethoven was a master at breaking the forms of classical music, he also returned to those forms anew in his later years while finding even older forms to play with and stretch. We can return to what formerly limited us once we know we're free, once we've found a way to stretch those limits.

Once the wall is torn down it's our choice to stay within its old confines, walk out, or even walk out only to return.

Like it or not, we need limits, they make us more creative, but they also show us exactly where to push.

Original collage and colored pencil drawing on canvas with the sides painted metallic gold. Measures 12x12 inches and .5 inches deep. Varnished to provide archival UV protection.

Pick up or delivery available if you live in the Seattle area. Contact me to arrange details.