Barbara Hack

Barbara Hack has always held a deep passion for the human figure, and it has consistently been a central theme in her work. Her art reflects an ongoing exploration of people and their emotions, with a particular focus on figurative work and the challenges of realistic portraiture. While she primarily works in painting, Barbara strives to go beyond mere realism, capturing resonant moments in time that speak to the viewer’s emotions.

Barbara earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in drawing and painting, following extensive study in Europe and additional training in New York. Since then, she has used her artistic talents to fuel a diverse professional career, including work as a courtroom artist, fashion illustrator, and in many other art-related roles. Over the last 20 years, she has taught at several academies, but five years ago, Barbara made the decision to pursue her art full-time. She continues to teach private lessons to adults, encouraging them to follow their passion. Recently, she has also led workshops, most notably in Italy over the past two years.


Artist Statement

I have always held a great passion for the figure and, therefore, have always involved it in my work. My paintings are an ongoing reflection of people and their emotions. I pursue a variety of figures with their moods and contexts. In every painting or drawing, I try to capture an ephemeral moment and make it last in time.


Instagram: @barbara__hack

Who and/or what were your influences when you were first starting out vs. now?

My college professor had a profound influence on me, particularly in terms of discipline and teaching methods. His impact shaped not only my technical skills but also my approach to work and art. He continues to be a mentor and a source of guidance for me. His encouragement and advice have empowered me to push past my limits, embrace change, and pursue my dreams with unwavering determination. I am forever grateful for his support and belief in my potential.


What is your favorite thing about the material(s) you use?

Variety. My work spans multiple mediums, and each material has its own unique versatility. I primarily work with oil paint because of its quality and texture. Oil paints offer a richness and depth that's hard to replicate with other mediums.


What would you say is hidden just underneath the surface of your work? What are you revealing to your viewers?

That’s the beauty and mystery of art. Sometimes, we don’t always know what’s hidden under the surface, because we’re expressing something that we might not even be fully aware of. Art has the power to tap into our subconscious, expressing emotions, thoughts, and ideas that we may not comprehend consciously. The meaning often reveals itself during the process. I often don’t fully understand why I’m painting something until it’s complete. This is a fascinating aspect of the creative process—over time, the work takes on deeper meaning and often brings the emotions to the surface.


Can you tell us about a turning point in your practice? Was there a moment when things started clicking?

For much of my career, I worked in various art fields—courtroom artist, fashion illustrator, private commissions—and whenever possible, I taught. The turning point came seven years ago when I made the bold decision to go full-time as an artist. That’s when things really began to click for me. I suddenly found a sense of meaning and purpose, and a deeper sense of belonging to my art. Embracing my passion for art and making it my livelihood has been incredibly fulfilling.


In honor of our women’s issue, who are three women and/or gender nonconforming artists that inspire you?

The Georgia O'Keeffe quote, "I've been absolutely terrified every moment of my life – and I've never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do," inspired my decision to start a new career later in life.

There are so many contemporary female artists who inspire me, many of whom have also become friends. In my personal art journey, artist Lesley Thiel has been an incredible influence, not only for her work but also as a mentor and champion of my own artistic path.

Another artist who inspires me is Käthe Kollwitz. She powerfully addressed the themes of war, poverty, and death, while also emphasizing love, protection, and the hope for peace. Her work reminds me of the importance of passion in the creative process.