Barbi Dalton’s charming blend of European-styled landscapes and genteel southern settings has created a strong following among personal collectors who appreciate the inner life she brings to both her oils and watercolors. It is her ability to depict and communicate the emotions elicited by subtle and peaceful moments in time that establishes her as an accomplished multi-media painter.
Dalton is also known for her paintings of reflective figures. The casual elegance of these pieces balance the gesture and expression of the subject with the abstract elements of the composition. Her graceful approach reveals the fragile essence of her subject by capturing a reflective or meditative moment. This kind of intimate connection often resonates deeply with the viewer on a spiritual level.
After earning a degree in Fine Arts from Kansas University, Dalton experimented with a spectrum of artistic endeavors including textile design, commercial photography, and graphic arts in New York City. She traveled through Europe to study the Italian masters and after returning to the states, became an established artist in the Chicago area. When she moved to North Carolina in 1998, Dalton broadened her range through “plein-air” painting and working in oil.
Dalton employs a skillful use of impasto painting in her latest series, “Ebullient Creeks.” This technique of thickly applying paint with the palette knife, has enabled her to create a powerful and complex water series inspired by years of contemplating the stream that flows by her home.
Barbi Dalton’s active life in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, includes painting, traveling, and spending time with her husband and three children. She attributes the strength of her talent and inspiration to God’s divine presence and her desire to reflect the divine in nature and everyday life.
“The images, that I’m attracted to paint often are truly art for the senses, deeply rooted in nature, inspired by God and colored by my vision and ability to transform an everyday scene into a dynamic affirmation of life. I’m drawn to the strong interplay of light and shadow and incorporating the movement and power of flowing water. The vignettes invariably bring me to acknowl-edge a Divine presence.” The paintings are of varied subject matter from my exuberant water scenes, painted with a palette knife to reflective water scenes or venues with memorable keepsake moments. I love the challenge of different subject matter and mediums.”
Barbi has generously donated an original oil painting from her Ebullient Creeks series to The ArtsCenter’s Silent Auction, on display throughout the month of June in the Nicholson Gallery. To place a bid for this work, visit our box office or call us at (919) 929-2787. Bids starting at $125 will be accepted until 5PM on June 28th.
