Artist Spotlight: Pamela Tarbell

Meet the Artist

Pamela Tarbell has lived in Concord, New Hampshire for more than fifty years, and art has been part of her life from the very beginning. She studied at the Rhode Island School of Design, raised four children, served on numerous arts committees and boards, and even spent twenty-two years running her own gallery and sculpture garden. She also participated in the United States Art Embassy Program. Today, Pamela is fully focused on her studio practice.

“As long as I can remember, I’ve always been in the arts.”

Artistic Style & Inspiration

Pamela gravitates toward color-driven, layered compositions. Her work often starts with a simple idea and grows through layers of paint, building movement and depth until the piece takes on a life of its own.

“Creating layers and layers of paint moves my first idea into something more creative.”

The Role of Place in Her Work

Growing up in Rhode Island shaped Pamela’s love for coastal subjects. She raced small sailboats, taught sailing during college, and spent much of her life near the water. Naturally, those memories find their way onto her canvas. Recently she’s been exploring a new series inspired by the fish and blues of the ocean.

“I am drawn to nautical colors and subject matter.”

A Favorite Piece or Series

Pamela has created many series over the years, but for this feature she chose to highlight her “Ode to the Birdhouse” series. It's a personal challenge to take a simple form and push it as far as possible through shape and complexity.

“I wanted to see how I could take a simple shape and make it as complicated as possible.”

Quick Favorites

• Favorite color to paint with: Blue

• Favorite coastal location: Rhode Island’s coast

• Art supply she can’t live without: Oil paint

What’s New

Pamela has had several solo exhibits this year and is currently preparing for one more. It's a busy and fulfilling season in her creative journey.

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Connect with Pamela

Follow Pamela Tarbell on Instagram @pamelatarbell to see her latest collections, works in progress, and coastal studio life.

Explore her full collection at The Green Room at 831.