Opening Reception - Barry Roal Carlsen January 21, 2010

Creating artwork can be a journey of esthetic exploration and self-discovery. Landscape is the vehicle I choose to take that journey and light is always the unifying element, notes Barry Roal Carlsen.Born in Nebraska where he received his BFA, Carlsen moved to Madison for his Masters degree and has remained there ever since. Currently, he divides his time between his artist studio and his position as a senior artist in the UW Communications Office, with occasional teaching opportunities at the University.Carlsens paintings in oil or oil and encaustic on panel have been shown around the state and the country in numerous galleries, museums, and exhibitions. All of his frames are hardwood and are designed and built by Carlsen specifically to enhance the work. Some of the works incorporate gilding in the frames or beneath the paint.What I enjoy most is listening to comments on my work, and how the same landscape can provoke feelings ranging from hope and optimism to a deep sense of loss, Carlsen states. Hearing these ideas oftentimes helps me to better understand myself and my work." Location: Polch Art Gallery

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