Barbara Karn CV
My main area of interest was in landscape until my move to Cornwall in 1992 when the figure took over as my subject. The already expressive and emotional content of the landscape paintings was more directly found through the nude human figure.
In drawing the human form I use distortion to draw attention to certain features or to create an attitude or character. Colour is used symbolically and to evoke an emotional response.
Until recently most works have been created in front of the model, but as likeness is not a goal the reference is one of human possibility, in other words, possible poses or arrangements of features which suggest a character within the drawn figure.
Currently I am continuing the creation of these figures using memory and imagination, as I feel removal from the live subject allows a more biographical interpretation. The nude figure is important because for me it represents a person in their original state, allowing vulnerability and a sense of the private person to enter the story.
Commissioned work and an interest in drawing animals have lead to the production of a series of prints which are light hearted and humorous in style.
Art Education
2001 Portland Sculpture Trust, Toot Quarry, Portland, Dorset; stone carving
1984-87 Glos College of Arts & Technology, Cheltenham, Glos; BA(hons) Fine Art, painting
1982-84 Trowbridge College, Wilts Art Foundation
Membership
Newlyn Society of Artists
St Ives Society of Artists
Solo Shows
2005 Vitreous Contemporary Art, Truro
2005 St Elwyns Church, Hayle, Cornwall
2004 Lang Gallery, London
2003 Truro Cathedral
2002 Archie Browns Gallery, Penzance
2002 The Tolcarne Inn, Newlyn
2001 The Promenade Gallery, Penzance
1999 The Schoolhouse, Morvah, Mixed Shows
2005 Critic’s Choice, Lemon St Gallery
2005 Thompsons City Gallery, London
2005 Rivers Gallery
2005 The Art House, Bradford on Avon
2005 The Colour Gallery, Great Bedwyn
2004 Crooked House Gallery, Lavenham
2004 Wine Street Gallery, Devizes
2004 Vitreous Contemporary Art, Truro