#19 Barb Burwell - Visual Artist - Looking Out Looking In

This episode features Portland, Oregon artist, Barb Burwell. We discuss her art process, what she learned from having a broken ankle, art residencies, creating your own art critique group and a bunch of other stuff!

Barb Burwell works as curator of gathered information.  She collects images, textures and forms, both physically and in her mind’s eye. Her work as an artist includes painting, drawing, mixed media works on paper, wood panel and canvas as well as sculpture. She also works as a fiber artist that employs fabrication techniques such as machine piecework, quilting, appliqué and hand embroidery.  

"Looking Out Looking In" is her current body of work that explores the idea of one's internal/external landscape and how specific locations connect to feelings of nostalgia. The work is a collection of metaphorical and visual perspectives that are a direct response to her experiences collected afield, by witnessing the landscape and experiencing the surroundings of the Pacific Northwest. 

She takes much inspiration and nourishment from the outdoors and does the real work of art-making through long, contemplative walks. Burwell was awarded a BFA from Pacific NW College of Art (Portland, OR) has worked and taught in both private and public art education and currently works from her Portland, Oregon based studio.

You can find her at
@barb_burwell_art
barb-burwell.com

For info on art residencies:
https://playasummerlake.org/

https://www.verdancyproject.com/

Suggested Art Books:
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/647853/funny-weather-by-olivia-laing/9780393867398

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/612671/year-of-the-monkey-by-patti-smith/