Barbara Hart

My portraiture is an expression of empathy. Sourcing images from mugshots, vintage photo strips, and condition photos of objects/toys for sale on internet auction sites, I project narratives and identity on anonymous subjects. I empathize with people and objects unknown to me, devoting extensive time and effort to give each character the dignity of formal representation. My characters are often in difficult situations, challenged to appear or act with dignity as life goes against them. I paint both humans and dolls. I feel the dolls are best at representing trauma, and the effects of interaction with humans. They can also represent the “hardening” of our human self as we continue through life. Ultimately, I feel spiritually connected to each anonymous subject. We each make a monumental personal journey from birth to death regardless of
circumstances. My art asks for empathy as we share the challenge.