Expressive Art Experience and Abergail Farm held their first interactive experiences last week, painting and sculpting alongside Highland cows.

For local artists and facilitators Michelle and Tiffany Springett, bringing together creativity, nature and a few fluffy four-legged friends became a heartwarming success.

The Cows & Create experience invites participants onto a working farm to meet, feed and pat a small herd of miniature Highland cows before settling into a guided art session of painting or clay sculpting, inspired by the animals.

“It’s not just about making art,” Michelle says. “It’s about slowing down, connecting with nature, having a laugh, and creating something meaningful in a really special environment.”

Participants begin their visit by spending time with the cows, feeding them and getting to know their unique personalities.

Then, with aprons on and brushes or clay in hand, they’re guided step-by-step through creating their own cow-inspired masterpiece.

“The cows completely change their energy,” Michelle explains. “People arrive a bit stressed or unsure about their creative ability, and within minutes they’re smiling, relaxed, and totally present.”

Guests leave not only with their own handmade artwork, but also with memories of a farm experience that’s equal parts calming, joyful, and unexpected, with the added delight of a potential cuddle with a baby goat.

For many attendees, the appeal lies in the simple combination of being outdoors, working with their hands, and sharing the space with animals. 

One participant described the experience as life-changing, saying, “Thank you both for making a fun and enjoyable experience and making art seem less scary.” 

Another shared, “It was the perfect place for my first sculpture, I even surprised myself with how it turned out.”

“I’ve seen people fall in love with the cows before we even start the art,” Michelle laughs. “They’re very good at stealing the show.”

With demand growing and sessions often selling out, Cows & Create continue to run throughout January. Painting on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and clay sculpting on Wednesdays, with all materials provided.