“Miniature paintings can have a powerful effect on people. I find it ironic that when I paint tiny, often people notice the subject for the first time.”
–Artist Barbara Stanton
Fine art and miniature paintings by Barbara Stanton have found their way in collections around the world. Beginning in February, her petite oil paintings of landscapes, portraits, and figurative life drawings will be on exhibit at Arata Art Gallery on First Street.
Barbara, who has lived in the Bay Area her entire life and has shown her art in shows throughout the United States, is excited to be the first featured artist in Benicia’s newest art gallery. Her charming landscapes, still lifes, animals and people are done in a very traditional, realistic style. Her superb use of color and light make each piece glow. The precisely detailed compositions, some no larger than a postage stamp, call out to the viewer to step nearer and explore them more closely, to feel the moment.
“I believe my miniature paintings can have a powerful effect on people. I think it’s ironic that when I paint tiny, the image reminds people of the beauty this world has to offer. I hope my paintings will remind the viewer of the preciousness of this wonderful planet. We need to love, cherish and protect it,” Barbara said.
Courtesy of the artist Cherry Blossoms |
Miniature dollhouse collectors are some of Barbara Stanton’s biggest fans because they fit just right in their fine miniature collections—small enough for dollhouses but not toys.
Barbara also enjoys studying the human form and helps run a local figure drawing workshop at the Bothwell Arts Center in Livermore. She has worked in traditional mediums for years, but lately Barbara has been drawing on her iPad. And she’s proud that she was the first American artist featured on the Australian TV Show Colour in Your Life with Master Artist Graeme Stevenson in 2016. She is also a dedicated art instructor, teaching children and adults.
The Benicia community and beyond will be able to view Barbara’s art show entitled Smaller than Life, February 1- March 17 at Arata Art Gallery, 637 First Street in Benicia. Join Barbara for an artist reception on Friday, February 1, 5-7pm, where you can view her special paintings, sip wine and enjoy savories. As a special treat, the following week Barbara will be conducting a demonstration on miniatures to artists and non-artists, February 9 at 1pm at Arata Gallery.
