We recently connected with Barbara Freund and have shared our conversation below.

Barbara, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

I can’t select a single most meaningful project and so many were related to a previous career spanning a couple of decades. Meaningful projects related to art all have common themes in that they give in multiple ways and directions. I am committed to helping those who help others so I direct a portion of proceeds from the sales of my paintings to rescue groups that are context related. For example, ocean-themed paintings direct the donation to marine mammal rescue groups ( Marine Mammal Care in San Pedro); western paintings direct donations to equine rescue groups ( Red Bucket Equine, SkyDog Sanctuary) mountain landscapes donate to conservation of open space, Save LA Cougars), etc. I was really excited to be the artist for the childrens’ book about LA’s most famous mountain lion’s life in Griffith Park ( P22: The Park) with 100% of all proceeds directed to the Wallis Annenburg Wildlife Crossing. The original oil paintings will be on exhibit and for sale at the Western National Park’s King Gillette Ranch in August 2023.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am primarily a plein air artist. “I am drawn to the beautiful outdoors and the connection one shares with the environment, painting scenes showing activities enjoyed in natural surroundings. I often paint scenes of bicyclists on local mountain roads, beach dogs and surfers, and riders on horseback in the State Park and local trails. I also enjoy painting these same locations without the activities, allowing the viewer (and the painter) to experience it in their own way which is equally inspiring. There is so much beauty around us. I hope to remind people of that.
I feel strongly about protecting and helping wildlife and domestic animals in need by donating a portion of sales proceeds to rescue groups and open space conservation and preservation groups. I direct the donation based on elements in the painting…ocean elements have proceeds donated for marine mammal rescue, horse elements have proceeds donated to equine rescues, and paintings with dogs have proceeds donated to local rescues and shelters, to name a few. This is a small way for me to help”.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect is the heightened awareness and appreciation of the beauty around us that painting gives me. I notice more. Everything is a potential painting and every painting is a potential conversation with a viewer about shared experiences and memories. It is a visual language that speaks to our spirits.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I think it is important for people to understand that they inspire us to create. For me, knowing that my painting resonates with them, perhaps evoking a memory and reminding them of what we hold dear, motivates me to begin the next work. People can support artists by attending exhibits, providing feedback and sharing stories. They can encourage their family, friends, co-workers and others to follow the artist and consider introducing them to those in the market for art. Host exhibits, attend art events. Wherever and whenever possible support local artists.

Contact Info:

• Website: barbarafreund.com
• Instagram: ravencliffstudio