There has always been an unseen hand pulling me or pushing me to express myself visually. I have always had a very strong need to use my hands and body to create, whether it was wielding a paintbrush or swinging a hammer. I have had many extreme experiences that have shaped me as a person, with a need to convey certain ideas, points of view or lessons I have learned. I have learned I can change an objects meaning or usefulness by incorporating it with other objects or words. I like the idea of recycling, and “improving” things.
I am bothered by the waste and temporary nature of our culture. I am bothered by the cavalier way we treat living things. I am bothered by our need of comfort and luxury at the cost of others. I am bothered by the increasing lack of personal freedoms in our country. I am bothered by the unceremonious way our government favors the rich before the needs of the common man. I am bothered by crude, unethical, hateful behavior that is emerging in our population. I am bothered by our lack of empathy for those who suffer. Creating art that addresses these issues is my way of voicing my concerns.

Recently I have come to realize that experience and ideology - in partnership with my craft can create very powerful expressions. Whether exploring visions that come to me in dreams, or depicting juxtaposing ideals, I have a need to honor those dreams or realizations visually. My journey through life has changed my art to tell a more meaningful story and my art has changed my journey into a more meaningful life.

-Rita Barnard