painting, pastel, drawing, and instruction

Barbara Lawrence studied at California College of Arts & Crafts in Oakland and the Academy of Art in San Francisco. Deciding early on to make her living with art, Lawrence worked in design, production graphics and computer illustration. 23 years ago she made the courageous decision to follow the momentum of what she sees as the most creative period of her life and start painting full time.

Barbara teaches workshops in the United States and Europe. Her work can be seen in numerous shows and galleries in and around California.

"It is not enough to paint for beauty, serenity, and the love of nature, although all those influence why I am driven to put color on canvas. There are deeper reasons: I work as a historian, to capture the essence of now, of this moment in time. A landscape is never the same from minute to minute. Light shifts, wind plays and weather rearranges.

My artist's filter is doing its own rearranging.  More and more, as I advance in my career, the colors deepen and the shapes simplify. Mystery overshadows sweetness; suggestion replaces precision. I not only want to capture what's there but also to explore my own inner worlds.

I think of art as alchemy: taking bits and pieces of materials and creating something of value. This value is in the hearts of the individual who comes in contact with the piece, but it is very real. Over the years, art has been the catalyst in my bonding with people and places I deeply treasure.

Teaching art is a powerful tool for strengthening one's own art. I have been teaching art in Marin for more than twenty years. As a teacher, I find it thrilling to see a student progress from an awkward beginning to his or her own awakening as an artist. Many of my students have gone on to win awards." 

Private Classes in Drawing and Painting for Adults and Teens by Barbara Lawrence

Barbara evaluates your individual needs and desires and develops a program that is unique to each  student. With dedication and perseverance artistic growth is  guaranteed. Let Barbara help unlock the creative genius inside you. Evenings and some weekends available. Fun and Informal.  Creative Stimulating and Supportive!

Contact Info:

email:  barbara@bl4art.com

website:  bl4art.com, barbaralawrencefineart.com 

phone: 415.717.1238