When the house on this land-granted parcel was originally built, it was a time straddling the 17^th and 18^th centuries.  The Putnams, the first settlers, would hardly recognize it today.  Standing inside the fenced grounds, looking down the curved dirt drive, gazing out past the orchard to where the Ipswich River runs, it is not too hard for us to imagine how it felt in this new place.  It is here, within the hay loft of the original barn, that you will now find the Valley Farm Studio.

The barn, while it is obviously used for very 21st century purposes, still retains its original post and beam structure.  When the artist and her husband were looking around for properties where they could live and work, she always carried a compass with her.  Once she stood on the second floor of the barn and held the compass facing the long side of the barn where the bank of five skylights now exists, she immediately saw the needle head north.  They’d found their home.
 

Approximately six weeks after moving in, and with the holidays approaching, construction of the studio began.  Working with trusted contractors, Dyment designed the studio to maximize light and get the most work space.  It was important to maintain the integrity of the barn and the property.  The main support beams in the barn, pegs, and exposed saw marks are still there, visible to all.  Heat, insulation, plastered walls, lighting and appropriate windows all made the studio a place to work comfortably any time of year. 

With almost 700 sq. ft. of work area, the studio provides Cheryl a space of her own that anyone would love.  Very often you will find other artists gathered here to work, critique, and discuss their latest projects.  While this is a working studio, it also serves as  gallery space for Dyment.  Appointments can be made for private showings by calling her at 978 777 1345.