Connections, Paintings by Barbara Brown Conrod

The central theme of this exhibition explores human connections—with ourselves, with others, and with the natural world. Conrod’s work investigates memory, identity, intergenerational diversity, and the constant evolution of social norms. Most of the photographs used as reference for this series were taken at a family farm in rural Nova Scotia, documenting an era when farm work was accomplished by hand and with basic machinery.

Through depicting figures across varied environments, Conrod documents the passage of time and the shifts across generations, paying close attention to changing hairstyles, fashion, labor, leisure, and expressions of gender. By exhibiting the corresponding reference photographs alongside each painting, she invites viewers to compare and contrast the images while engaging with their historical significance. Ultimately, Conrod aims to provoke reflection on personal relationships and family histories, encouraging viewers to strengthen their connections with others.

Conrod believes that craving connection and a sense of belonging to something larger than ourselves is a universal human experience. Through her work, she highlights how images of ourselves and our loved ones offer joy, comfort, and a grounding sense of family.