New York City is set to host a profound exploration of human resilience this fall as California-based painter and celebrated podiatric surgeon Don Hershman unveils his deeply evocative solo exhibition, “I AM A BARN,” at Artifact Projects. Opening on Thursday, October 9th, 2025, with a public reception from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, the show presents striking, large-scale paintings of rural barns as powerful symbols of enduring strength and the quiet dignity found in imperfection.

On view through October 26th at Artifact Projects (155 Suffolk Street), Hershman’s “I AM A BARN” series transforms weathered rural architecture into monumental meditations on the human journey. Crafted with masterful layers of acrylic, ink, and pencil on large wood panels, his barns are far more than mere landscapes; they are symbolic portraits—cracked, bowed, and resolute—mirroring the scars and strengths accumulated over time.

“Each aging plank tells a story,” Hershman explains. “These barns mirror our own human journey: tested by the elements, shaped by trials, yet still standing.” His 72” x 60” piece, “Barn #1” (2022), serves as a powerful testament to this concept, capturing the weathered beauty and stoic fortitude of these structures.

Known for his dual life as an accomplished podiatric surgeon, Hershman seamlessly bridges the precision of medicine with the expressive freedom of art. His artistic journey began in childhood, deeply influenced by visits to world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where he fantasized about becoming an artist despite pursuing a “secure path” in medicine. He continued to draw and paint throughout medical school and surgical residency, honing his command of pencil and paintbrush alongside his surgical skills. This dedication paid off in 1992 when a chance encounter at a home party led to his first group show at Spectrum Gallery, where all his pieces sold, solidifying his confidence as an artist.

Hershman’s distinctive technique and introspective storytelling have garnered national and international acclaim. His previous acclaimed exhibitions include “The Art of Code Switching” and “Donald and Victor: Under the Influence,” which have been featured at venues such as the de Young Open and Salomon Arts Gallery in New York. The “I AM A BARN” series itself was previously featured on the cover of San Francisco Arts Monthly magazine in 2024 and exhibited at Radian Gallery.

This exhibition at Artifact Projects marks Hershman’s first major New York City solo show since a successful 2023 exhibition and follows a dynamic 2025 season that saw his work displayed across numerous venues in San Francisco, Pleasanton, and Sonoma County. The series reflects a universal truth: that beauty and strength emerge not in spite of wear, but because of it.

“I AM A BARN” will be on view at Artifact Projects, located at 155 Suffolk Street, New York City, from October 9th through October 26th, 2025. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 12:00pm to 6:00pm.

EVENT DETAILS: What: Don Hershman: I AM A BARN Solo Exhibition Where: Artifact Projects, 155 Suffolk Street, New York, NY When: Opening Reception: Thursday, October 9th, 2025 (6:00pm – 8:00pm) On View: Wednesday – Saturday, 12:00pm–6:00pm, until October 26th, 2025

For more information about Don Hershman and his work, please visit www.donhershman.com or connect on Instagram @donhershman.