Dan Colen: Farming as a Revolutionary Act

A spring day finds us at Sky High Farm, a forty-acre expanse in New York’s Hudson Valley. The owner, artist Dan Colen, provides a tour, showcasing newborn animals and burgeoning crops. The cyclical nature of farming, he explains, is deeply compelling.

Witnessing Colen in his current phases – farmer and new father – alongside his partner Lexie Smith and their two young children, is both unexpected and heartwarming. Our paths initially crossed years ago in the vibrant, albeit chaotic, New York City nightlife scene. The stark contrast between then and now is striking.

Colen quotes chef Matty Matheson: farming is the new punk rock. This sentiment encapsulates the rebellious spirit of Colen’s agricultural venture.

Established in 2011, Sky High Farm dedicates its entire harvest to combating food insecurity in the region. Last year, substantial quantities of produce, meat, and eggs were donated to various organizations. Furthermore, a grant program distributed significant funds to support underserved communities.

This summer will see the debut of the inaugural Sky High Farm Biennial, “Trees Never End and Houses Never End,” featuring prominent artists. A key component of this project is highlighting the work of the late Ben Wigfall.

The participating artists have pledged substantial art pieces, not to be sold through a traditional auction, but via a specially designed model, with varying percentages of proceeds donated depending on each artist’s financial situation. Trade partners have also offered considerable support.

Colen’s farming endeavor is not a mere side project; it’s become deeply integral to his life. His childhood dreams differed significantly from his current reality; he originally envisioned a professional basketball career, but ultimately realized his artistic pursuits offered a more effective platform for self-expression.

His earlier artistic collaborations were known for their intensity and unconventional approach. The passing of a close friend served as a catalyst for significant personal and professional changes.

Despite achieving considerable success in the art world, Colen felt a need for a change, leading him to establish the farm in 2011. He sought a creative outlet outside the confines of the traditional art market.

The farm’s name, Sky High Farm, originated from a pre-existing sign, reflecting both the challenges and optimistic spirit of the project. Colen’s immediate focus was on food donations.

He views his artistic endeavors and the farm as interconnected, both driven by a commitment to equity. The farm’s evolution into a non-profit organization was a significant step, exceeding his initial expectations.

Past experiences, such as post-Hurricane Sandy relief efforts, highlighted the profound impact of community service. Colen’s involvement with the farm has surpassed his expectations. In 2022, a fashion brand, Sky High Farm Universe, was launched to further support the farm’s mission.

Balancing his roles as artist, farmer, and fashion designer presents unique challenges, and he acknowledges the diverse reactions this multifaceted identity elicits. His current artistic work reflects a direct connection to the farm.

Colen envisioned Sky High Farm as his own interpretation of utopia, a constantly evolving ideal aimed at bringing positive change to life.