Mutual Interests – Original Gouache Painting

Mutual Interests is an original gouache painting by Ellen Jean Diederich featuring cows grazing over a fence.

Do you ever walk up to a fence line where cows are grazing? They are often incredibly curious and will really look you over. These youngsters in my painting, Mutual Interests, seemed to thoroughly enjoy getting their photo taken!

Their round shapes were a joy to paint, especially since each one has such a unique coat. To bring out their form, I varied the color and changed the direction of my brush strokes to follow the contours of their muscles.

Mutual Interests is a prime example of static composition. I have always loved working with static structures because you can create a beautiful, subtle rhythm just by varying the placement of your subjects. Whether the alignment shifts slightly vertically or horizontally, it captures a sense of peace. The background then steps in to support the main subjects with its own gentle, contrasting rhythm.

This piece is perfect for any space!