'Tremors of fear and excitement have always run through me when in close company with the fighting bulls of Spain and even their milder cousins that roam Dartmoor.

In art, advertising and literature, these creatures have commanded many attributes, from courage and strength, to the erotic and the sacred - they are even thought to forecast weather! Do they deserve these accolades? As providers of milk, the giver of life, should we revere them more highly? Their contribution to the human race is enormous and unavoidable.'

At Middle Rocombe, sculptor Isabel Coulton is exhibiting a series of studies in clay, drawings and woodcuts, as well as mixed-media sculptures and a wood-carving made on site, that explore how she is moved by the beauty and power of cows.

Following a disciplined training, Isabel has spent twenty years refining her skills. She has now reached a turning point in her practice, which is reflected in her work for the Art Farm.

'I have learnt a practical alphabet of technical ways of using chisels. Although I feel that it is important to learn one's chosen skill as well as possible, I also believe that without relinquishing learnt disciplines and experimenting with line, form, structure, colour, true art will not emerge. In order to continue with carving, I need now to let go. I now face the greatest challenge.'