Barbara Groh

Barbara Groh

Barbara Groh
Artist’s Biography & Statement
Studio: Brooklyn, NYC
Birthplace: Buffalo, NY | 1948

Artist’s Statement

My visual inspiration began early in life with my fascination with Abstract Expressionism. As I am primarily an abstract artist, I aspire to affect others not by superficial representation of the world around us, but rather by provoking thought, emotion, moods and aesthetic pleasure.

Landscape is a primal presence for me. I explore diverse environments on foot and then return to the studio to transform my experiences into physical being. This inspiration can happen just outside my studio door or in distant lands with unfamiliar landscapes and cultures.

Many of my paintings in oil, acrylic, and cold wax may reflect a quiet practice of noticing inner space, peace, and presence. Others may reflect a desire and will to express freedom and unencumbered thought. Both encompass the present moment and the past — a synthesis of physicality, perception, meditation and inner movement.

My earth and clay works are literally grounding. The act of digging, grinding, kneading and sanding these materials is an intuitive transmission of the language of abstract art — the state of self-discovery while creating primary expression.

My drawings serve as calligraphic meditations. Creating and shaping line is an intuitive process and an intimate expression of centering myself in the moment.

I see my process of creating visual statements as a transitional passage from ordinary reality to a taking hold of the mystery and life force I seek in my work. My objective is to mirror my own transformative process, and to dedicate myself to the power of art in our daily lives.

Biography

Barbara Groh is a visual artist who has immersed herself in the creative process for over four decades, creating highly personal abstract works of art. Her work has been exhibited in galleries and museums and has appeared in numerous publications and collections. Groh holds an MFA from Vermont College of Norwich University. She has shared her talents and life experience through teaching on numerous art faculties, primarily in courses on Drawing and Painting. She has moved her primary residence and studio from the countryside in Sweden to her studio in Brooklyn. The continual change of scene between Europe and North America informs her visual language. Her sense of place, space and time are now much influenced by her new home and landscape.