Limited Edition Screen Printed Farm Aid 40 Deep Roots Poster
Art by Gary Houston. Screen printed by Andy MacDougall at Wachiay Studio.
Farm Aid 40 Poster Art Statement
The concept for the Farm Aid 40 poster art is about deep roots. Early in the roughing out and drawing process, wheat by way of Thomas Hart Benton’s approach to portaying Americana. The thought was also about above ground, the plant and it’s surroundings.
Then things changed with a directive suggesting the use of a plant called kernza. I did some on line poking around and was pleasantly surprised by the results. Turns out that the primary facility researching kernza is located in Salina, Kansas. I spent a semester at Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kansas about 30 miles south of Salina.
The online pictures of kernza show a root system that grows deep into the soil, 3-4 times the length and debth of regular annual wheat. This hearty plant is a
perenial, lending its grain to wheat uses, spirit/beer making and such. The deep root system also rejuvenates the soil. So, much of the magic of this plant takes place below ground level and it was interesting to focus on the weavings of the roots. I feel that this plant also parallels the musicians performing at and are the core of the Farm Aid experience. These seasoned folks all have very deep roots and are hearty in their craft. I feel this image is a tribute to their efforts. Congratulations on 40 years of Farm Aid! Contributing to this event is indeed an honor!
Photo by Laurie Bonneau
