Notes from Sheepland

Cara Holmes’ first documentary feature bursts with candid observations of the lipstick-wearing, always swearing, nononsense artist and shepherd, Orla Barry. Through her fields, her digital diaries, and the pedigree sheep she cares for, we discover how the art is in the doing. Holmes’ storytelling is a revelation, with bold framing and choice of shots that are exhilarating to watch. Her relationship with her subject always feels fresh and authentic. It’s a film of great wisdom and wit, insight and intelligence, with a flock of sheep thrown in. Let’s call it A Portrait of an Artist as Shepherdess. (Telluride Film Festival)