Process Large abstracts frequently begin with bold gestural strokes and drippy washes. After the initial spontaneous start, each painting is evaluated from a distance and over a period of time. Then the layering begins. Adjustments are made to composition, colour and texture, building, changing and refining until a satisfactory finish is achieved. This can take months or years. I start fast and finish slowly. I like to keep several paintings on the go in my studio and when I get stuck on one I move to another. This often means a change from high colour pieces to ones in quiet grays, blacks and white. I like that. It keeps my mind and way of working flexible. It helps maintain my interest.
The finished painting is on view in the dining room of Parklands: At The Gardens, College St. Halifax
ART EDUCATION: BFA, NSCAD University Certificate of Design, Sheridan College
TEACHING: Barbara has taught painting classes and workshops for the extension division of NSCAD University and other art organizations across Nova Scotia. During Covid, she taught several online abstract classes through Visual Voice Art Gallery.
Solo and Co-Exhibits (recent)
2024, IN FULL COLOUR, co-exhibit with ceramicist Jackie Cohen, Peer Gallery, Lunenburg, NS
2022 co-exhibit with Bradley Wiseman, Peer Gallery, Lunenburg
2019, MIXING IT UP, co-exhibit with Jennie Carton, Peer Gallery, Lunenburg, NS
2019, FOR NOW, SFX University Gallery, Antigonish, NS
2017, TIMELINES, Craig Gallery, Dartmouth, NS
2017, NOT JUST BLACK AND WHITE, co-exhibit with glass artist Anke Holm Peer Gallery, Lunenburg, NS
2015, DRAWNOUT, co-exhibit with Susan Hudson,
Peer Gallery, Lunenburg, NS
2014, GROUNDSHIFT EXPANDED, City of St. John, Art Gallery, NB
2013, GROUNDSHIFT, Peer Gallery, Lunenburg, NS
2013, A co-exhibit with stone sculptor, Heather Lawson, Harvest Gallery, Wolfville, NS
Solo and Co-Exhibits (past)
2012, BARBARA MCLEAN, NEW WORK, Peer Gallery, Lunenburg, NS