ARTIST STATEMENT

The recent change in the rhythms of life enhances my visual field.  New feelings of stillness open up to a new found sense of space.  Perceptions of the changing light are more acute as we move through the seasons.  The altered sense of time and space serve as a portal to nature in my most immediate surroundings.

My polestar is to convey a sense of natural phenomena by the interplay of color and light.

Nature has always served as an abiding inspiration and influence in my life. Observation of nature’s more subtle color variations and the way these transitions work together to form the whole fascinate me as magnificent source points for possible exploration. Letting go of preconceived notions about what I am seeing in nature works best. In turn, by allowing myself to be present with what is unfolding on the canvas I can reliably produce an organic connectedness. This enhances the experiential aspect of the work. Direct representation engages the mind but it is the feeling that is my priority. It allows the viewer to rest, imagine, and remember.

My paintings are experiential, meditative.

Alternating application of complementary hues increases the perceptual luminescence of each piece. I glaze countless layers of pigment in order to enhance the color subtlety and complexity of the work. As I layer the hues, spatial relationships change. Attention to balancing these small changes in color allows me to achieve a coherent sense of space.  Even slight shifts in light or prolonged viewing reward one’s sustained contemplation.  In turn, these details invite the viewer to explore the finer distinctions of the painting.

In art, as in life, attention to the medley of minutia determines the larger picture, always. 

VIDEO

Katherine Chang Liu, national art show juror, discussing Carole Barrer's work at the Coos Art Museum Exhibition.

Interview with Debra Ruzinski of BACart.