February 16, 2009
artist barbie kjar
While working on a recent issue of real living magazine I came across the work of Barbie Kjar. One of her etchings was featured in the home of Kathy McKinnon. I fell in love with it instantly. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that not only is she based in Tasmania but her artworks are not that expensive either.
Which five words best describe you? Passionate, energetic, curious, whacky, tenacious.
What was your first job and what path have you taken since then? My first job at 17 was milking cows then at 21 teaching English at Burnie High School and in the last 20 years I have been a practising artist with some teaching in drawing and printmaking at university in Hobart.
What's your proudest achievement? Guest speaker at the National Print Symposium in Canberra 2007, and my two children Jasper and Luci.
What's been your best decision? To pursue my life as an artist.
What are you passionate about? Overseas travel and dancing, especially salsa.
Who inspires you? The writer Margaret Scott.
What's the best lesson you've learnt? To live for now, to be in the present and not to be judgemental but most of all to live your passion.
Which person would you most like to meet? American artists Jim Dine and Susan Rothenberg.
Which dream do you still want to fulfill? To live in Mexico or Spain and speak fluent Spanish.
What are you reading? The Boat by Nam Le.
Images courtesy of Barbie Kjar, Bett Gallery and Australian Galleries