The Enduring Legacy of Barbara Cleary: A Pioneer in American Art
Barbara Cleary’s artistic journey is one of dedication, innovation, and a profound connection to the landscapes and scenes she loved. Known for her magnificent landscapes and Southwestern scenery, Cleary primarily worked in oils, creating works that continue to captivate audiences. Her contributions to American art are recognized not only in private collections but also in five prominent museums: the Mabee Gerrer Museum of Art, the Museum of the Southwest, the Rockwell Museum of Corning, NY, the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art at Kansas State University, and the Mulvane Museum of Art at Washburn University.
Born and raised in Oklahoma, Cleary was a student of the world, holding degrees from the University of Oklahoma and Central State University, and further enriching her craft through studies at Kansas State University, Southwestern College, the University of Wyoming, and Louisiana Tech University. She honed her skills under the guidance of nationally acclaimed artists such as Edgar Whitney AWS, John Pike NA, AWS, Douglas Walton, AWS, Charles Movali, and Alfred Currier. Her relentless pursuit of mastery in her field led her to explore various mediums, from the challenging and versatile watercolor, which she began in 1963, to the rich and expressive oils that would later define much of her work.
Cleary’s commitment to her craft extended beyond her studio. She was a member and former board member-officer of the Artist Guild of Wichita and a founding member of the Kansas Watercolor Society. Her involvement in the Greater Kansas City Art Association, Oklahoma Watercolor Association, Southern Watercolor Society, and other esteemed organizations further solidified her place in the American art scene. Throughout her career, Cleary participated in numerous festivals and group shows, consistently earning accolades and winning competitions across the Midwest.
One of Cleary’s most significant achievements came when her watercolor painting "May’s First Born" was included in the 115th Annual Exhibition of the American Watercolor Society at the National Academy of Design Gallery in New York City. This piece was selected for a 12-month traveling exhibit, a testament to her exceptional skill and vision.
The 1990s marked a pivotal shift in Cleary’s artistic journey when she was inspired by an exhibit of Nicolai Fechin’s work. This encounter led her to adopt oil as her preferred medium, particularly for plein air landscapes. A great admirer of Monet and Fechin, and some of the California plein air painters, Cleary said, “I try to push the color (and some of the principles involved in color theory) in the direction that I think these artists might have if they were still painting today.”
Her oil paintings, many of which depict the sweeping skies and rugged beauty of New Mexico, are among her most celebrated works. These pieces, alongside her botanical studies and prairie landscapes, have been widely published and are cherished in private and corporate collections as well as museums across the United States.
Today, Barbara Cleary’s legacy continues to thrive through various platforms. Her works are featured on www.barbaraClearyDesigns.com, where they are available as art prints and home goods, allowing a new generation to experience her artistry in their daily lives. Her collaboration with Studio EL has also expanded her reach, offering larger giclée and canvas limited edition prints that preserve the rich texture and vibrant colors of her original works.
Barbara Cleary’s work is not just celebrated for its aesthetic beauty but also for its contribution to American art. Her paintings have earned numerous awards, each recognizing her ability to capture the essence of her subjects with an authenticity and depth that resonates with viewers. Her vibrant use of color and commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques have left an indelible mark on the art world.
Cleary’s journey was not without challenges. As a woman artist in the 1960s, she faced gender biases and societal pressures that made it difficult to gain recognition. However, her perseverance and bold choices as an artist, wife, and mother not only contributed to her success but also aligned her with the broader Women’s movement of the era. Her decision to pursue her passion for art in the face of these challenges was a courageous act that paved the way for future generations of women artists.
In her later years, Cleary lived and worked with fellow artist David Gross, continuing to create and inspire until the end of her life. Her legacy is one of feminine resilience and masterful creativity. Barbara Cleary’s work will continue to be celebrated as a shining example of American art, cherished by those who seek to understand and appreciate the beauty of the landscapes and scenes she so masterfully depicted.