Barbara Gilhooly

"My background is in printmaking and my current work reflects the love I have for rich, active surfaces. I aspire to create objects that make people feel less grumpy!"

Barbara Gilhooly's fondness for circular shapes can be seen in much of her work. This shape represents the harmony between organic and geometric forms. Gilhooly is interested in the contrasts and similarities between the industrial and natural world.

Gilhooly begins her painted pieces by building up many layers of painted color and pattern. In between painting, she draws with ink or works back into the surface by carving, sanding, and scrubbing the paint to reveal the texture underneath. The result is a surface showing a rich and active history.

Barbara Gilhooly earned her MFA in printmaking and sculpture at Colorado State University and her BFA at the University of North Dakota. She first set up her studio practice in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she established a following for her paintings, wire sculpture, and sculptural art objects. In 2010, she moved to Colorado, where she maintains an active exhibition schedule.