'Ballantine' Original Rainbow Highland Cow Oil Painting 100 x 80 cm

Ballantine
Original Rainbow Highland Cow Oil Painting
100 x 80 cm

Ballantine is part of my ongoing series of expressive, colourful Highland cows, a body of work that I began many years ago and have continued to refine into the recognisable style that collectors now know me for. This approach has inspired many others, which I take as a compliment, but these pieces remain the true originals. They are rooted in the way I see these animals, not as farm stock but as sentient individuals with their own quiet dignity, family bonds and friendships.

When I paint a Highland cow, I am trying to show the inner life that sits behind those gentle eyes. Each mark of colour is placed to express personalityand mood.

 Ballantine has the calm strength I associate with these animals, a mix of curiosity, softness, and wisdom. The rich rainbow palette reflects her  surroundings and fun, sweet character.

This painting brings all of that together. It is vibrant, contemporary and full of life, yet it also has a quiet emotional pull. Ballantine honours the individuality of these beautiful animals.