The ideals of my generation-peace, love and freedom of expression- captivated me when I was a young mother in the 1960's I watched as other women joined in the civil rights protests, anti-war demonstrations and explored their own creativity. I dreamed of joining them. Unfortunately, life circumstances delayed my longing for self-actualization and political action.

I led a responsible life, raising three sons to adulthood. Eventually I realized other aspirations. I finished college, becoming a teacher and administrator and attaining financial independence. My desires to become an artist and activist remained dormant. I learned the techniques of watercolor, drawing and oil painting, but choose to relinquish my passion for art. I recognized the things that brought me a sense of joy and fulfillment were those times that I made a difference in the life of a child, parent or teacher.

During those teaching years, I developed my self as an artist by integrating my art into the school. I repaired and painted the school chairs that were to be destroyed. The front office, classrooms and my office were decorated with my brightly colored chairs.

When I retired in 2008, I committed to realizing my artistic expression. I believe that all of us are, at the center of our being "one" but are so often very much "alone" This oneness/loneliness is what I try to communicate in my art. Subjects that interest me are the environment children and disenfranchised women. I am exploring ways to communicate the deep trauma and beauty of the human condition with the ordinary tools of the artist: subject, form and especially color.

I am constantly re-creating my life through painting. My maiden name, Carnahan, reminds me of my unique and genuine origins so important in maintaining artistic integrity.

Contact: Barbara Carnahan Marriott
Phone: 310-543-1239 or 310-387-9650
Email: oncecarnahan@gmail.com