Artist Statement
For as long as I can remember, I have been in love with the West. The inhabitants—both human and animal—have intrigued and delighted me as much as the vastness and wonder of the scenery. I am continually drawn by some deep connection I have yet to understand.
My desire to capture the faces, places and mercurial moods of this corner of the world has enriched my understanding and appreciation of freedom, strength, individualism, and beauty.
Drawing is my means of exploring and understanding my subject matter. I see with my pencil as it strokes face, fur or feathers to explore the colors, pattern or subtlety of expression. I have studied, marveled at and savored each piece, and I hope they inspire the same wonder in you, the viewer, that I have experienced through my work. As you touch them with your eyes, may you feel that same connection to the beauty of the West as I do.
About
Raised in St. Louis, MO, Cathy Barnes became a certified K-12 Art educator as she earned her B.A. in Art from Fontbonne University. An award winning Art teacher, Barnes retired from 30 years of teaching to move with her husband to Cheyenne, Wyoming. After providing years of guidance and inspiration to her students, retirement has now allowed her the time to fully pursue her own work.
The beauty and diversity of the Wyoming landscape and the Western way of life not only made the move to the state a dream come true for Barnes, but provides limitless inspiration and is the heart and soul behind her work. Working in pencil, colored pencil and charcoal, the careful rendering of the varied textures, colors, and intricate patterns that make up the flora and fauna is aimed at drawing the audience in and awakening them to the intricacies of creation.