Down on the Farm - portraits of contemporary farm life

An exhibition at the Rural Life Living Museum

coming in spring 2024

‘Down on the farm” is an eclectic selection of photographs, made over 6 years documenting life at Little Cowdray farm in Surrey. From vintage tractor restoration projects, to ploughing matches, animal husbandry and family events these images give an unprecedented insight into what it’s like being a farmer in 21st century Britain.

Boys at a ploughing match

Working closely with the Goble family, who currently have lived for four generations at Little Cowdray, Siân has worked to bring to life that feeling of deep connection with the land that she gets when visiting the farm.  Siân says “while farm life is a whole soul and whole body commitment, those who choose it radiate a unique contentment that is both energising and peaceful”

Pete and Teresa on the Field Marshall vintage tractor

Sian has partnered with the Rural Life Living Museum to bring the exhibition to life using historical artefacts from their farming collection.  Museum curator Madeleine Howard says of the collaboration “By comparing and contrasting Sian's photographs with our heritage collection, we can tell the continued shared story of those who manage our countryside and feed our community.”

Miniature goat shenanigans

How to Visit the Down On The Farm exhibition

Dates – Wednesday 13th March to Sunday 7th April 2024

Opening Times – 10am to 4pm Wednesday to Sunday

Location – Rural Life Living Museum, Reeds Road, Tilford, Farnham, Surrey GU10 2DL

Entry fees for the Rural Life Living Museum apply – see here for details

The exhibition coincides with the Rural Life Living Museum’s annual vintage tractor event, 15th to 17th of March, and closes with the Surrey Hills Enterprises Spring Fair on 6th and 7th of April.  Siân will be available at both events to discuss the exhibition. A selection of prints from the exhibition are available to purchase at the Spring Fair event.