DPW Spotlight Interview: Barbara Haviland

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings.

To enter to win Barbara's painting, "Seascape" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing her interview.

From Barbara's DPW Gallery Page:

I have been creating fine art for over 38 years. I am mostly a self-taught, raw artist who draws inspiration from the world around me. I love bright, bold, rich colors and feel satisfied when someone can see the love I have put into the piece that I have created, whether it is a landscape, floral, portrait, or a seascape. I am married to Sam, my husband of 51 years. We have three grown children and five grandchildren. 

Seascape
(click here to see original image)

Enter to win by clicking on the link at the top of the DPW home page announcing Barbara's interview.

Tell us a bit about how you first started painting.

I first starting painting about 38 years ago after my father died. I painted because he was a painter of cars, houses and his refinery work. I have found that I truly love creating.

Did you have any stops and starts in your painting career?

No, but I did not paint everyday like I do now. I raised three children and worked at a bank.

Wildflowers Landscape
(click to see original image)

What mediums and genres have you experimented with?

I have worked with oils, watercolors and acrylics.

Which ones have "stuck" and which ones have fallen away? 

I have remained with the oils and acrylics and just recently started with watercolors again.

Guitar
(click to see original image)

Which ones are you looking forward to exploring? 

I love painting with the palette knife using lots of textures and thick paint. I have been doing flowers with the knife. 

Who or what inspires you most?

My most favorite artists are ones that are traditional. My husband does support my art with his critiques and input.

What does procrastination look like for you? 

That is not in my vocabulary.

Red Truck in Snow
(click to see original image)

What techniques work to ensure that you make time for your art? 

Now that I am retired, I paint every single day on some painting. I teach and do workshops. I love that.

How do you generally arrive at ideas for your paintings? 

I take lots of photos of the subjects I love. I also love still life and plein air.

Little Yellow Bird
(click to see original image)

How do you keep art "fresh?" What techniques have helped you avoid burnout and keep your work vibrant and engaging? 

I am always looking to try something different with my art. I will experiment with paints and knives. I am a very optimistic person and try very hard to be upbeat and positive.

What do you feel you are learning about right now as an artist? 

I am trying to learn from all the artists that I mingle with. I have met so very many nice and friendly people since I joined the groups that I belong to.

Two Red Poppies
(click to see original image)

What makes you happiest about your art? 

 I get really happy when people comment on my paintings and buy them.

Thanks, Barbara!

© 2014 Sophie Catalina Marine Cruse