Image of the Week: Portrait of a Train
© D. Yael Bernhard
This spring I had a solo show at the Erpf Gallery in Arkville, NY. Across the street is the Delaware Ulster Railroad, where this antique train waits to be restored. When train enthusiast Wes Coates of the DURR saw my exhibit of Catskill landscapes, he got an idea. In an effort to raise funds for the restoration project, he commissioned me to paint this portrait of how the train will look when it's done.
Built by the Brill Manufacturing Company in 1928 for the New York Central Railroad, the train is nicknamed "The Red Heifer". It operates with a diesel engine that turns an electric generator, which in turn runs traction motors on the wheels. Tucked under the belly of the train, the wheels are so small, they barely make contact with the tracks. This reduces friction, I was told.
For many years "The Red Heifer" operated in Westchester and Putnam Counties before it was sold to a railroad in Canada. It came to the DURR in the 1980s. Once restored, the train will run again along the East Branch of the Delaware River!
A second portrait is forthcoming of the same train crossing a bridge in autumn. People who love trains can't get enough of them! For me it's a refreshing change to work on something different. I like the challenge of painting something so iconic, and placing it in my favorite natural setting – these beautiful Catskill Mountains.
DURR has some great rides and events in August – check out their website. Caution: train fever is contagious!
A good week to all.
D Yael Bernhard