Barbara

Hunter

Barbara has been drawn to the contemplative space of oil painting and mastering the nuances of working with composition, color, values, and edges for more than 40 years. It took a pandemic for her to be able to devote the time and space to painting full-time, which she refers to today as “the silver-lining of lock down.” Over the years Barbara has as studied with acclaimed artists and teachers, including Mark Carder, Dawn Whitelaw, Adam Clague and Abbey Ryan, to name a few. All have helped to feed her insatiable curiosity to learn more. Barbara uses a variety of media— fabrics, still life objects, pencil, and photography—to fulfill her desire to create something beautiful to capture on canvas and share with others. Barbara recently designed and built the studio of her dreams, which has become her place of peaceful refuge. She says her inspiration is often born in this very special space. Most days you will find her at her easel capturing quiet moments of ocean sunsets and soft marsh grasses; rolling hills and scenic landscapes; still life studies of flowers and fruit; and sentimental portraits of people and pets. If you visit her studio, perhaps you too will feel a sense of peace while enjoying the beauty of her studio and found in her work.

When I first tried my hand at oil painting many years ago, I was mesmerized by the buttery feel of the paint and the deep, rich colors. Today, after years of study and working with a cadre of talented teachers and mentors, I am still captivated. I expect to continue to hone my skills for the rest of my life and it humbles me deeply to say, “I am an artist.” My inspiration as to what to paint is influenced by the subject, composition, light, and color, but is not necessarily conscious choice. It seems instead to be more intuitive, as if the painting chooses me. When I am at my easel, capturing the beauty I see with my eyes and feel in my heart, I believe I am using my God-given gifts as an artist. The art of painting feeds my soul. While my inspiration may be more intuitive, the process of painting is highly disciplined. Drawing in proportion, composition, value, edges, and color are each important technical aspects to consider when painting. As an artist who paints realism, my goal is to portray real life subject matter just as it is. If the buildings are leaning from the passage of time, as they do in Italy, or the shadows obscure some aspects of what I see, that is what I paint. My greatest hope is that my work speaks to the viewer in a quiet, compelling way that has meaning for them. If they see and feel beauty, if it evokes a cherished memory, a special story, or a peaceful moment, I know then my work is done.

Oil / Alkyd

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