Barbara Lormans

Hi I’m Barbara, a visual artist with a passion for the many and varied processes of hands on printmaking. I do however struggle to stay in my lane so I also like to stitch, collage and paint, if the project calls for it, as I work to realise my idea for a piece.

From a young age, thanks to my creative parents and the well stocked art supplies cupboard by the kitchen table, I developed an appreciation for all sorts of creative practices and began expanding my own skills across many art disciplines. I have nurtured my creativity through self directed explorations as well as life drawing classes, workshops and winter and summer schools.

Luckily I love exploring and researching things for myself. I also really enjoy the challenge of experimenting with different techniques and media. The themes and ideas investigated in my work are often a response to the natural environment or an issue of interest to me. It could be an observation of the native flora and fauna, a comment or question relating to the challenges and responsibilities concerning kaitiakitanga (our role as stewards of the natural world) or simply an idea that gets under my skin and niggles away until I respond.

In my previous role as a primary school teacher I enjoyed supporting students to explore and create across a wide range of media on individual and group projects. Planning and supporting a school wide mural depicting the school as a multicultural community was a challenging and satisfying project.

I have exhibited locally in group shows and had work selected for national exhibitions in Southland, Otago, Canterbury and Auckland. My work is available online, at Return to Eden Gallery in Marlborough and through exhibitions. It can be viewed by appointment at my home studio, recently named Wee Beaver Studio. I would love to hear from you and share my processes and work.