Barbara Behrmann

It was the first day of first grade and I was opening my new box of 64 Crayola crayons. What was more exciting than that? That same childhood passion for color and color relationships is what motivates my creativity today.

I work in two separate mediums, creating abstract compositions with hand-dyed fabric and acrylic paint. Some of my work is non-representational and improvisational. Other pieces draw inspiration from the natural and physical world, and from landscapes, both real and imaginary. All of it is abstract, layered, and imbued with vibrant, saturated color.

As a fiber artist I start by creating my own fabrics using fiber-reactive dyes. Techniques include immersion dyeing, dye-painting, printing techniques, and various resist techniques. I then use these fabrics to create color-saturated art quilts.

The construction is based on multiple layers: a pieced top (the main design); a substrate (another fabric or a painted surface), and a layer of batting sandwiched between them to add depth. Decorative stitching holds the layers together and creates added texture, line, and movement. Finally, I finish the top with an edging that is typically not visible from the front. In short, I draw on traditional methods to create non-traditional work.

As a painter, I use brushes, brayers, sponges, palette knives, and more to apply multiple layers of paint to paper, stretched canvas, or wood panels. I may also incorporate collage elements, gel sticks, inktense blocks, and other materials to build the layers I desire and to add nuance in line, shape, color and texture.

Regardless of medium I hope my work will generate, in others, that same childhood excitement and sense of wonder that came from opening a new box of Crayola crayons.

I am a member of the Greater Ithaca Art Trail, The Quilt Divas (a group of Finger Lakes fabric artists), and the Finger Lakes Fiber Artists. My work has been displayed at local and regional venues and shows. Some of it is also available as print art on merchandise available through Fine Art America.