Barbara J. Gill
My artwork is inspired by nature and the human condition. It allows me to reckon with my spiritual, emotional and physical self. Just before my first cancer operation in 2001 I had a strong urge to buy art supplies. To help myself cope, I knew that I needed to create.
When I work on my art indoors I listen to music for inspiration. Painting my feelings does not always come easy; drumming the canvas with my paintbrush helps me break through my creative blocks. Dancing, and painting with my bare hands, is usually part of my process. Feathers, sand, seed-pods, pebbles, lake water and shells are occasionally incorporated into my pieces. Guided by colour I build the canvas, creating shape. When I finish a painting I am content.