Artists Guild of Anchorage members visited Woodland Farm, in Goshen on Monday, September 29th at 2pm.

It was a wonderful sunny day with beautiful views as we drove the single lane road to the 1,000 acre farm where Laura Lee Brown and her husband Steve Wilson reside.

In 1996 the couple purchased the 1790’s era farm where they live and garden, raise bison for their Kentucky Bison Company and free grazing pigs and grow fruits and vegetables through sustainable growing methods. The main house had not been inhabited for 13 years so many repairs and refurbishments were needed to bring it back to its glory. Large heavy wooden doors with summer screens greet you as you enter the home with beautiful hardwood floors, tall ceilings and art work hung gallery style adorns the foyer walls up to the second floor staircase

According to curator, Alice Gray Stiles, the art work is rotated between their other properties and housed in a large temperature controlled warehouse when not in use.

We were delighted that Laura Lee and Steve were home and participated in the tour answering our questions and delighting us with personal stories of their travels, collections and collaborations with artists. They pride themselves on discovering young artists and Steve stated that their union brought together a love affair with land and art. Land conservation and art are two of their core values. Laura Lee stated as we thanked her for opening her home and her hospitality she wanted us to know that it was her intention to share the art experience with others. She stated, “Why have it if you don’t share with others.” She loves Kentucky’s beautiful wide open garden spaces and views it as one of its most valuable assets.

The adjoining dining and living room are filled with contemporary art and contain two beautiful large handmade chandeliers of tarpon shells which capture the light through the window and fixture. The furniture in the room, chairs and sofa are covered with a beautiful green velvet that sets off the artwork. We toured the office, butlers pantry, kitchen, upstairs bedrooms, bathrooms and powder room all with beautiful views of the pond or river. The outside courtyards were surrounded by blooming flowers, shrubs and a sculpture. While we were allowed to take pictures, we were asked to publish only the group pictures which were made out front on the front porch. The front porch had to be completely restored.

Laura Lee and Steve have built a legacy of art, land, preservation and philanthropy throughout their lives.

They own the Hermitage Farm, a notable landmark known for raising thoroughbreds, offering bourbon tastings, garden and art installations. The restaurant Barn 8, a farm to table restaurant is located on the property as a house filled with artworks. They also own the 21c hotels known as the Museum Hotels. They have been awarded numerous awards for their life achievements and are celebrated in many noteworthy publications and press.

You might be interested in viewing-“In frame: The Man Behind the Museum Hotels” as well as the other attached links.

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