Conversations with Barbara Dahlstedt

Today we’d like to introduce you to Barbara Dahlstedt.

Hi Barbara, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
It is just like they say, “When one door closes, another door opens.” After teaching high school art for 26 years, it was time for me to retire so that I could focus on my own art and teach in different community art clubs. I had several scheduled for the next two years and then, WHAM!!! Covid-19 hit, so everything was canceled! Of course, I could not accept that fate, so I adapted. I learned how to use Zoom for online teaching and BOOM! I was back in business! I had online seminars set up for an entire year with a waitlist started for another year of workshops.

Meanwhile, much of my day is devoted to creating the artwork that I have always wanted to do. I love experimenting and trying new materials so it has helped me stay engaged in the creative process. It is amazing how you can stay connected with other artists even though in-person meetings are not happening yet.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My biggest hurdle was in having the confidence to go out of my comfort zone and learn how to use the technology needed to do online teaching. I had to have the right equipment so that my instruction could come across clearly. I invested in lights, a camera, and a microphone so that my presentation could look and sound professional. I also learned how to record and edit the video so that I could upload it to YouTube. This ability allowed me to reach a bigger audience on other continents. Some days I pinch myself for a reality check, but I feel like I have reached a certain level of success.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
The art form that I am most known for is my colored pencil work. I picture myself as a champion for the medium that is oftentimes underappreciated. The colored pencils that I use are of the highest quality. I am concerned with using only lightfast pigments and I work on archival surfaces. My favorite surface I am currently obsessed with is Graphix Drafting Film. I can draw on both sides of this translucent polyester material.

The drafting film allows me to create depth, extreme detail, and the ability to draw in a very large format because it comes on a roll or huge sheets. I have become an award-winning artist with the Colored Pencil Society of America, American Women Artists, and the Arizona Artists Guild. I love it when people say, “I can’t believe that it’s colored pencil!”

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I have had great success in finding artists that are willing to share their experiences. Go to their art shows, become friends on social media, and ask for help.

Pricing:

• My colored pencil workshops are $60 for a 4-hour seminar
• My original artwork is priced from $800 to $5,000
• My prints range from $60 to $100

Contact Info:

• Email: barbaradahlstedt@gmail.com
• Website: DahlstedtArt.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DahlstedtArt