ICON by ATIM presents Barbara Tyler Ahlfield

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“Aquatic Highway” by Barbara Tyler Ahlfield

Barbara Tyler Ahlfield: Combining Classical and Modern Elements in Fashion-Inspired Portraits

By Viviana Puello

Barbara Tyler Ahlfield is an award-winning American artist who combines classical and modern elements in her fashion-inspired portraits. Drawing from her background in the fashion industry, she creates emotionally charged paintings that are both whimsical and refined. Ahlfield merges her passion for fashion and art to create a world of glamour through classical figurative techniques and modern impressionist influence.

She is a realistic representational portrait artist who takes the viewer on an indulging journey of romantic dreams by capturing colors and textures, the tactile qualities of velvet, satin’s rich luster, taffeta’s feel, and vintage lace’s nostalgic beauty.

Barbara Tyler Ahlfield’s style is characterized by carefully orchestrated brushstrokes and excellent composition skills, resulting in realistic portraits with awe-inspiring colors and lively, energetic imagery. Through her work, she seeks to capture the beauty and emotion of her subjects, expressing her deep love for drama and glamour. Her paintings are filled with rich colors, soft textures, harmonious forms, and movement that bring life to each portrait. She captures the essence of her subjects, with each painting telling a story in its own unique way. From realistic oil paintings of models dressed in Haute couture garments to pet portraits that evoke tenderness and vitality, Barbara Tyler Ahlfield’s style is a testament to her mastery.

During her thriving career as an Illustrator, she worked for top U.S. department stores, including Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor, and Hutzler’s. She has also received several honors, including the NORMA award for lingerie and cosmetic advertising, the Seklemian award for reflective color advertising, and the Federated Dept. Store Advertising Award. In 2019 Ahlfield was featured as “Artist Of The Year” in ArtTour International Magazine and received the ATIM Top 60 Masters Award.

Barbara Tyler Ahlfield has created a lasting impression in the art world. Her paintings are celebrated for their emotional power and glamour. Her classical figurative technique and modern fashion-inspired impressionist influence have brought about an entirely new style that has inspired many other artists. Her work is a testament to her passionate belief that everyone should feel confident and beautiful. As a result of her remarkable talent, Barbara Tyler Ahlfield has made a name for herself as one of the most influential and respected female painters in the art industry. Her legacy will continue to influence others for years to come.

“Let Art Be Your Fashion” An Interview with Barbara a Tyler Ahlfield.

Was there a pivotal moment when you decided to follow your path as an artist?

“Not really - I have been drawing since I was two years old and always knew that I wanted to become an artist. This was a blessing as I had a clear path from an early age. “

Can you describe your work for us?

“Figurative, stylized, and semi-classical with an emphasis on fashion, drama, and mood. I am a fashion illustrator turned portrait artist.”

When looking back, what paintings emerge from your works that most relate to your life story?

“There is a self-portrait illustration done in art college that is a seminal piece as it depicts some things I love best -animals, architecture, fashion and drama— later on- a painting called “Cotton Candy” ushered a new direction for me in fashionable portrait painting. Portraits done of my family and friends followed and finally commissioned portraits.”

What advice would you give to a young artist following in your footsteps?

I would say that you must love creating your artwork and be willing to put in long, solitary hours and perhaps years before being recognized, as what they say, you cannot make a living through your art alone. Additionally, if you plan on becoming wealthy, art may not be the right career path for you. If the abovementioned fact is acceptable to you, go forward, create, and never give up!

“Feline Fashion Harem” Oil on Canvas, 48’’x60’’

How do you think your work fits within society in our present times?

My work is a throwback to some of the work done centuries ago. However, there is a niche for my work that is probably a constant in society, no matter what era it is. I appeal to a segment of society that likes classical beauty with a touch of the supernatural and a strong interest in fashion, which is timeless.

What does your work aim to say?

There is comfort, peace, and “centering” in art.

Who are your biggest influences?

John Singer Sargent, Giovanni Boldini, Thomas Dewing, John White Alexander, James McNeill Whistler, and J.W. Waterhouse are among the painters from centuries ago that influenced me.

Currently, I am influenced by the works of Jeremy Mann and Nick Alm.

“Cabaret#2” Oil on Wood Panel, 16’’x20’’

“Sea Bride” Oil on Canvas, 66’’x48’’

“Lily Pad” Oil on Canvas, 60’’x48’’

“Cabaret#1” Oil on Wood Panel, 16’’x20’’

Can you tell us about your creative process?

I begin by being inspired by something I’ve seen and photographed. Then, I do a rough sketch of my plan for the painting and determine the size of the canvas I’ll be using. Next, I transfer my rough to the canvas—loosely. Then, I begin by blocking in my shapes and values and then work in layers of glazes until I am satisfied (or nearly LOL!), and then I decide when I’m finished, which is actually the hardest thing I consider when painting.

What visual references do you draw upon in your work?

Photographs and direct painting from life.

Any upcoming projects?

I’m working on a new series of paintings called “Cafe Society,” Barbara Tyler Ahlfield’s work is in high demand, and she continues to create paintings with increasing complexity. While she has already established a strong presence in the art world, She is collaborating with Vivid Arts Network Television for an upcoming documentary featuring her life story. Barbara hopes this project will help her reach an even larger audience, allowing her to share her art with people from all walks of life.

Barbara Tyler Ahlfield’s work has been featured in many major media outlets, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, New York Weekly, Daily Herald, and U.S. News, among many others.

Her work continues to reach a global audience through her presence in various forms of media. Ahlfield’s talent and passion can be seen everywhere, from print and digital to social media.

“Best Friends Rendezvous” Oil on Canvas, 60’’x36’’

“Arabella in Repose” Oil on Canvas, 40”x40”

“Vapor” Oil on Canvas, 60’’x48’’

“Forsythia and Tulle” Oil on Canvas, 60’’x48’

Fashion is definitely a great influence… I love drama, dramatic posing and lighting