Friday, July 17, 2009

Old School Baling

When I was out running errands I caught my second cousin Vernie out baling with his son. What struck me is this is the type of baling rig I earned spending money on when I was growing up. Mostly fond memories, some not. Smooth thump-thumping of tractor, diesel exhaust smell (not bad, it grows on you) clanking and banging of the baler, dust, swaying stance on wagon. Then, if it's alfalfa, a sweet smell (and HEAVY bales). Most baling today is the large round bales. More mechanical - less human labor. I chatted with them. They still cut the square bales because horse owners like them. They can feed them out easier. And horse people pay well. They're used to spending mass hordes of money . . . they own a horse. I asked to snap a picture and went on my way. Decided to try a WC paper sketch rather than my usual Moleskine sketch journal, w/pencil, Pitt pen, WC pencils and color pencils.

6 comments:

Alex said...

great pictures! I really like the details for the tractor and everything that's connected to it. The background is awesome too, overall a valuable sight!

Claire M said...

nice sketch! Its fun to see this because it isn't the typical scene of nature or buildings.

Anonymous said...

A pleasure to visit the scene and your memories. well done, and thank you.

Claire M said...

Love your images and reflections!

CONGRATULATIONS - I posted a blog award for you on my blog!!

Marva Plummer-Bruno said...

John you did a great job!!! We were just in Kansas the last 2 weekends and saw some harvesters, with all the rain they're running way behind on cutting... Marva

Donn said...

You don't see too many of these around any more. Great sketch.