Russell Farm Art Center
One of my favorite parts about the beginning of each month is getting the Burleson NOW magazine delivered to my home. It features hometown stories of notable residents and brings attention to some of the best places around town to visit.
Sometime last year, the magazine featured an article about the Russell Farm Art Center which is located at 405 W. Cr. 714 in Burleson. My first thought when reading this bit of information was wondering why I never heard of this place before; especially since I am a proud resident of Burleson. My next thought was that I must visit this place.
As an on-location photographer, it is always very exciting to find new places where you can take your clients' photos. The best part about this farm is that admission is free and there is no fee to take photos on the property. Anyone is welcome to come during their normal hours of operation and use the scenic backgrounds the property has to offer. During the times I have been able to take photos at the farm the staff were always welcoming and helpful.
The beauty of the farm is what makes this place so special, though. You can tell a lot of hard work has been put in throughout the years to preserve and maintain the old barns, farmhouses and livelihood shops. Old barn wood and corrugated metal makes for very nice backgrounds for photos that will deliver a 'rustic' feel to them.
The Russell Farm Art Center is a place for artists, students and art lovers to share and expand their knowledge of art. Surrounded by the beauty and the history of the farm, all are invited to tour the galleries, attend seminars, and participate in workshops and classes.
"A Picturesque Slice of Texas"
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History of the Farm
According to the website, the farm has been passed down through the family over the years. Martha Glenn Russell started the farm in 1877. She and her husband, Dr. Robert Russell, moved to Marystown community, Johnson County in 1874 where he built a country store and practiced medicine. Two years later he passed away.
The Russell Farm was entered in the Texas Family Land Heritage Program in 1977 by Martha Russell’s grandson, Russell Lace. This program honors family farms that have been in continuous operation for at least a hundred years. In order to maintain this family connection, Martha and Russell Lace chose their nephew, Charlie Boren, to keep the heritage alive. Charlie, along with his wife Louise moved to the farm in 1979.
Just as Martha Glenn Russell had opened her land to newcomers looking for a place to work and raise a family, Charlie and Louise continue in similar tradition with the foundation of the Russell Farm Art Center.
Examples of Portraits with Russell Farm Art Center Scenery
For more information about the farm, such as hours of operation and events, please go to www.russellfarmartcenter.com. You can find them on Facebook!
