Dan Colen: A Revolutionary Approach to Farming

A visit to Sky High Farm, the forty-acre estate in New York’s Hudson Valley owned by artist Dan Colen, offers a unique perspective. Colen, at forty-five years old, guides the tour, emphasizing the natural processes at work. The daily occurrences—plant growth, animal births, seasonal cycles—all contribute to the farm’s vibrancy. This environment is made even more poignant by Colen’s recent roles as a new parent, alongside his partner Lexie Smith.

Our paths first crossed years ago, during a period of youthful exuberance. The contrast between that earlier time and the present, with Colen leading a tranquil life on his farm, is striking. Colen’s perspective aligns with chef Matty Matheson’s viewpoint: farming is the modern equivalent of punk rock.

Established in 2011, Sky High Farm has a core mission: providing one hundred percent of its agricultural output to food-insecure communities. The farm’s significant contributions include over twenty-five thousand pounds of produce, seven thousand five hundred pounds of meat, and forty-four thousand eggs annually. Furthermore, a grant program has invested $350,000 in supporting local organizations and individuals previously excluded from funding opportunities.

This summer witnesses the inauguration of the first Sky High Farm Biennial, a showcase of art. The exhibition, which will feature notable artists and aims to highlight the work of the underappreciated Ben Wigfall, will employ a novel funding model, with artists contributing portions of their proceeds according to their financial capabilities.

While farming might seem like a recent venture, it’s become integral to Colen’s life and artistic expression. His early ambitions centered on professional basketball; however, he recognized art as the ideal platform for self-expression. His initial foray into the art world was marked by collaborations and a notable lifestyle; however, the passing of a close friend spurred significant personal change.

Colen’s journey involved achieving considerable success within the art world, yet he felt compelled to seek a different path. The creation of Sky High Farm in 2011 served as both a retreat from the complexities of the art world and an opportunity to expand his artistic pursuits beyond conventional confines.

The farm’s name, a playful twist on a pre-existing sign, perfectly encapsulates the project’s blend of ambition and optimism. From the outset, Colen’s intention was to dedicate the farm’s yield to those in need. He views his work in art and farming as interconnected, both striving for greater equity and addressing societal imbalances.

The evolution of Sky High Farm into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2016 was both unexpected and transformative. Colen’s commitment to positive change has been reaffirmed through his participation in initiatives like Citymeals on Wheels following Hurricane Sandy. The project’s impact on Colen’s life has been profound.

In 2022, a collaboration with Daphne Seybold led to the creation of Sky High Farm Universe, a fashion brand. This venture generates additional income for the farm and raises awareness. Colen embraces his multifaceted roles, even acknowledging the confusion and excitement they elicit in others.

Colen’s current artistic endeavors, including a significant portrait of his partner and child, reflect a deep connection to the farm itself. The farm represents his personal vision of a utopian ideal, continuously evolving and striving to make a positive impact.