Barbara Stanton
I was born and have lived in the San Francisco, Bay Area all my life. I’ve been drawing since I could pick up a pencil. As a toddler, my Grandmother would hand me a pen & paper to keep me quiet in church. I taught myself to draw, with the encouragement of my 7th grade art teacher, but needed help learning how to use oils. I started painting while in high school when I found a private art teacher at a local art gallery. I had an amazing high school art teacher who taught me what "art" really was and I went on to attend community college and took every art class I could. I like to try lots of different mediums and I've been painting for more then forty five years now!
I have always loved to paint small. The best part was starting and finishing each painting but found that I got bored half way through each large piece and they never turned out like I hoped. When I started painting in miniature, I found a greater satisfaction then ever before. Now I can start and finish a piece in just a few sessions instead of months! I love the details and it's all details. I love a challenge and it's not that easy painting so tiny. Everything about painting small felt right to me. I've never wanted to go back.
I am most inspired by nature and light. I'm always aware of how the light falls on everything around me. I want to recreate those moments. My miniature paintings can have a powerful effect on people. How ironic that when I paint tiny, people notice the subject for the first time. The images may remind you of the beauty this world has to offer. I invite the viewer to share the feelings I had when I first discovered my subject. Feel that moment, and remember their own sacred moments. I hope my paintings will remind you of the preciousness of this wonderful planet. We need to love, cherish and protect it.
On a personal level, painting is a form of meditation for me. A way of connecting to my higher self. A spiritual experience that brings joy and healing into my life. I hope it does the same for you.
Before the Covid 19 pandemic, I taught art to all ages (not just miniatures) and I ran a figure drawing workshop on Fridays. I hope to continue that when the Bothwell Arts Center opens up to classes again soon. Meanwhile I've been painting more then ever before and winning awards at many of the shows that I enter. I sell my work on my website, at galleries, dollhouse shows and art exhibitions all around the world. I do custom paintings (big and small).
I enjoy the freedom to further my career and pursue my dreams because of my wonderful husband, Bill Maranville, who supports me emotionally as well as financially.