Visual Art

at the Wilson Center

Ploch Art Gallery

Lost Days by Barry Roal Carlsen (oil/encaustic
on panel; 16 1/2 x 11 1/4")

Barry Roal Carlsen

Shifting Ground: Paintings, Prints, and Drawings

January 4–February 27, 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 Master’s 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.

Carlsen’s 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."

The 2009-10 Ploch Season was presented by

with contributing support from

Andrea and Anthony Bryant

Susan and James Cerletty

This exhibition was sponsored by
Elaine Peterson

Pat and Phil Crump