Like most artists, Barbara Conaway has had a strong interest in art since childhood. However, she didn't begin oil painting until she took a class from R.S. Riddick in the mid '90s. After a lifetime of taking classes in a variety of mediums, she found oil painting to be something that was both creative and intellectually challenging. She studied with Riddick for six years and has continued to take oil painting workshops from a variety of artists who challenge her abilities.
Barbara has a degree in Electrical Engineering, two grown children and spends time helping with the business management of her husband's equine veterinary practice in Tucson, Arizona.
"My passion for art is in the process. To study, learn, and experiment with techniques, color and tools are the things that drive me. I am inspired by the work of other artists - their brush strokes, and their use of light and color. I choose my subjects based on color, light and a strong desire to see if I can capture its essence. Sharing my work is often difficult, however when others enjoy it, I feel a sense of honor and pride that is truly thrilling."
______________________________________________________
The following link is to a feature article about Barbara printed in the December '09 issue of Tucson Lifestyle Home & Garden. http://secure003.accrisoft.com/secure/tucsonlife/index.php?src=gendocs&ref=Regional_%20Artist
______________________________________________________
Exhibitions
2010 Kentucky National Wildlife Art Exhibition, September 2010
Tucson Museum of Art "Crush"
"Empire 100", 10th Annual Western Art Show & Sale, January 2010
Tucson Artists' Open Studios, March 2010
Mountain Oyster Club 40th Annual Contemporary Western Art Show & Sale 2009
"Small Works - Big Impressions" Society of Animal Artists 2009, Parker, Colorado
Tucson Pima Arts Council, Artists Open Studios, November 2009
American Women Artists 2009 National Juried Competition, Easton, Maryland
"Empire 100" Western Art Show & Sale, January 2009
Mountain Oyster Club 39th Annual Contemporary Western Art Show & Sale 2008
Salon International, Greenhouse Gallery San Antonio, Texas, May 2007
"African Sojourn" Madaras Gallery, Tucson, Arizona 2007
Mountain Oyster Club 38th Annual Contemporary Western Art Show & Sale
Honored to Participate Since 2000
________________________________________________________________________
Member
Society of Animal Artists
Oil Painters of America
Friends of Western Art