Tara Barr

Tara Barr is an oil painter who creates fun nostalgic pop art inspired by her passion for history, technology, and design. She maintains a studio at the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, Virginia, and serves on the board of the Torpedo Factory Artists’ Association. Barr has a strong interest in engaging the public in the creative process and encourages everyone to dedicate time to creative pursuits. She has exhibited consistently across the DC metropolitan area as well as across the US and holds a BA in Art History from George Mason University.

Artist Q&A

Your work draws on nostalgia with still life paintings that often feature objects from childhood or a bygone era. How do you choose which objects to paint?

I choose subjects that I know have stories behind them. My studio is in an art centre that is open to the public, so in my studio I get to hear their stories. Often, the conversations I have with visitors to my studio inspire future artwork. Then for more insight into what subjects will resonate, I research, often visiting online forums for collectors of various things. I look at estate sales and auctions, I listen to history podcasts and books, I go to museums. All of this helps me understand what kinds of objects are important and why.

Can you tell us more about the series Summer Memories?

I tend to work hard and forget to set aside time to relax and have fun. This series is a reminder to myself (and you!) of the importance of fun in our lives. I believe that when I create art, I can create more of what I want in my life at the same time. Sometimes when life gets heavy, I balance it out by creating something extra fun as a reminder to enjoy small pleasures and prioritise play.

Get the full interview inside the Autumn 2024 Edition of Art Seen.
See more from the artist at www.tarabarrart.com