Greetings| April 2021
Celebrating Spring
We are all in this world together and last year was a challenging one. I send you compassion for all the ways these times may have been difficult for you. Our family lost two dear friends to COVID19. I am not a Pollyanna, yet I've learned that light shines brightest in the darkness. I've been comforted and inspired by the light in my world: the beauty and love in my family, friends, and in nature. Last year my heart grew as I held space for grief and joy. I turn to the poet Rumi often. He wrote: Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation.” As a painter, I love with my eyes, too, and paint so that I can express what is seen and unseen.
Featured Artwork in OutdoorPainter.com

OutdoorPainter.com is the website for Plein Air Magazine. I am honored to have been chosen for a featured editorial about my paintings for the month of April. Click on the link below to read the editorial.
The Pinnacles oil 11x16
Awards and Events
Oil Painters of America (OPA) Signature Membership Award
As last year was winding down, I received a great honor. Being awarded Signature membership in OPA, the premier art organization in the country, is an artist's lifetime achievement. Acknowledged for being a slave to my passion feels great!
Artist in Residence, Ghost Ranch, NM
The landscape of Ghost Ranch – made famous by painter Georgia O'Keeffe – has acres of towering rocks. I reveled in the freedom of strapping on my backpack full of painting gear, hiking, and painting to my heart's content. You will see the vivid colors I was inspired to paint while being their guest artist.
Best Signature Member Award 
Plein Air Painters' of New Mexico Award in the National Show: "Cliff Faces", oil, 8"x16", was awarded this honor by Lorenzo Chavez, Judge of Awards, at Wilder Nightingale Gallery in Taos, NM!
Placed in Winter Wonderland Contest
Plein Air Painters of New Mexico Winter Wonderland Contest: "Cold Snap in the Bosque", oil, 11"x 14".
Shown in Albuquerque Museum's Annual ArtsThrive Show
This is a wonderful nationally juried show to benefit educational programs at the museum.
Juror for New Mexico MasterWorks Show
Juror for NM MasterWorks Show
I was honored to jury the MasterWorks Show in Albuquerque. The show is online for the month of April. It was really fun for me to sort through the works of art and see so many different styles and visions. My juror's statement may be found on the MasterWorks website.
Barbara Coleman Studio | email | barbaracoleman.com