Artist and author seeking old barns in Coshocton
Dr. Robert Kroeger, Cincinnati artist and author, is continuing his Ohio Barn Project and will visit the counties of Tuscarawas and Coshocton on Oct. 9 in search of old barns and compelling stories. Most of Kroeger’s paintings go into fundraisers for historical societies and museums – as do sales of his book, “Historic Barns of Ohio,” recently published by The History Press/Arcadia. The 206-page volume features old barns in paintings and essays in each of Ohio’s 88 counties.
With an overwhelming reception for his first book – and with many more barn stories still to share – Dr. Kroeger keeps looking for fascinating tales of old barns for inclusion into his second book on old Ohio barns. “I prefer barns built prior to 1930,” Kroeger said. “I also like ones that maybe are on their last legs — sagging roofs, missing boards, tilting a little bit.”
If any barn owner feels that his or her old barn is photogenic and has a good history behind it, he or she is encouraged to contact Lynn Fraelich, local artist and member of the Coshocton Art Guild and the Tuscarawas County Art Guild. Her phone is 740-498-5474 and email at snoutheaven@yahoo.com.
If a barn is selected to be in the Ohio Barn Project, Dr. Kroeger and Fraelich will visit to meet the owner, if possible, and take photos. The visit typically takes about 30 minutes. “I know these counties have many charming old barns and spectacular stories that are just waiting to be told. The trick is to find them,” he said. Kroeger’s essays and barn paintings can be seen at www.barnart.weebly.com.
Category: Arts & Entertainment
