About the Artist :: Barbara R. Traficonte
“I paint “en plein air” and also in my studio. Since studying with Albert Handell, if I am painting a landscape or seascape, I work a little differently than I used to. I now try to start a painting on site; work it until the light changes too much, taking pictures with my camera every 30 minutes or so, and then take it back to my studio and finish it, using my photos if I feel the need. I then let it sit for some time and keep evaluating it and changing it, if necessary. This is a slower process and I feel it has helped me to refine my painting. There is always the danger of overworking a piece this way, but I think in the end it has helped me to be a better artist.
“I have also a different view of what my paintings should be. I want the viewer to feel what I felt when I painted the painting. If should say something about the day and mood; about the light and color; and about me as the painter. The painting need not be sweet or pretty, but should be a well composed, strong painting which makes the viewer want to look at it.
“Finally, although I enjoy painting still lifes and do at times. I am particularly inspired by and attracted to the flowers and landscapes of Maine in all their seasons. I love to paint and though I am a certified picture framer in my everyday life, I do make time to create a painting as often as is possible. There is a group of four women with whom I paint. We travel far and wide trying to find the perfect spot, with the perfect light and the perfect feel to paint. It is the joy of life.”
Barbara loves to create with pastels on Wallis paper, and archival acid-free material. She resides in Norway, Maine.