Rolling Field

Special project commissioned by the Sandhills Institute, 2019.

Rolling Field" was designed and executed by artist collective, Edible Carnival.  The project consisted of creating a steel base for a 12' x 4' rolling cylinder that was automatically watered by a solar pump. The cylinder was wrapped in peat moss and geotextiles and planted in wheat. The base held the water.

This project was built while on public display at our new Grocery Gallery exterior space on Main Street in Rushville.  This is a very visible space and is passed by locals all the time. The project generated a lot of conversation in town, specifically as the wheat grew.

At the end of the project there was an event called “Experiments in Harvesting”. We had about 40 people in attendance.  In all we had several community receptions for the project.

Rolling Field was the brainchild of artist Russell Bauer. In keeping with our mission, we had hoped he could have collaborated with local rancher, inventor, and engineer Bob Bequin. Though there were initial conversations between the two, it was with great disappointment that Mr. Beguin had to bow out because of health concerns.

This project dealt with the pragmatism of ranchers and farmers often repurposing old machinery and parts for new needs and purposes. It is not unusual to find old, used farm machinery in ranch or farm “junkyards.” Though Edible Carnival did not use farm machinery in the end, they did re-purpose an old trailer home. 

Edible Carnival is dedicated to experimenting in ways to grow food with alternative means. The Sandhills Institute wants to thank them for sharing such a wonderful project for us and the community of Rushville. We look forward to seeing the project utilized in future planting events elsewhere, knowing we were part of its conception.

Special thanks to: EFG Foundation, Sandhills Institute, Nebraska Arts Council. With great honor and respect for our friend, the late Bob Beguin.