Bold, and Untamed – My 30 x 40” Highland Cow in Oil

“Ballantine” Original Oil Painting in a dining room setting. 30 × 40 “ canvas

“Ballantine” Original Oil Painting

At 30 x 40 inches, this painting has real presence. It’s large enough to anchor a dining room, lounge, or entryway, a real talking point.

For collectors, it represents an investment in joy, in colour, and in a connection to the Highland Cow, that resonates far beyond the canvas.

There’s something about Highland cows that makes them irresistible to paint. Their gentle strength, flowing coats, and almost comical fringes carry a sense of both character and majesty. They embody the soul of the countryside - wild, weathered, yet undeniably beautiful.

This 30 x 40” original oil painting is one of my boldest interpretations yet. I leaned into rich, vibrant colour, using brushstrokes that bring energy and movement to the canvas. Rather than aiming for realism alone, I wanted to capture the spirit of the animal, that quiet resilience, and of course, the playful chaos of the hair.

Hung in a modern space, the painting becomes an immediate focal point. The vivid hues of magenta, turquoise, orange, and deep violet make the cow almost glow against a simple backdrop, transforming the mood of the room. It’s a piece that doesn’t just decorate a wall – it uplifts it, bringing a touch of the Scottish Highlands into daily life.

Highland cows are a subject close to my heart. Over the years, they’ve become one of my most collected themes, with buyers often telling me that the paintings bring them joy, a smile, or even a sense of calm. There’s something universal about their charm as they feel familiar yet extraordinary, rustic yet luxurious, humorous yet dignified.