KINGSTON — When Harriet Forman Barrett was required to take a jewelry course in college, she was less than enthusiastic. She could hardly have anticipated that the class would begin a professional journey spanning 57 years and eventually connect jewelry, sculpture and painting through recurring themes of movement, mythology and the female form.

“I’m a multifaceted artist, and my degrees are all in fine art,” Barrett said. Jewelry ultimately provided an accessible way to make a living while continuing to explore ideas appearing throughout her work. Her designs incorporated movement, women and human connection, including pieces depicting couples joined together. 

Barrett’s interest in movement was also influenced by dance. Over time, those ideas carried into her sculpture and painting, particularly through representations of women. “It was just part of my spirit of who I am and what I believe in and the power of who we are,” Barrett said. While she sees that power throughout humanity, she found herself repeatedly expressing it through the female body and what she describes as its grace and beauty. 

Mythology emerged just as naturally. Barrett recalled being fascinated as a child by images of powerful women from ancient Crete, an interest she did not fully recognize as an influence until later in life. Eventually she realized those early encounters with history and mythology had become deeply connected with her artistic identity. 

Those threads were visible during Art Walk Kingston in Barrett’s painting Hera, Queen of the Gods, Protector of Women, where the mythological figure provides another expression of the feminine strength that has followed Barrett throughout her career.

After more than five decades of making art, however, Barrett’s focus extends beyond her own work. Increasingly, she finds satisfaction in bringing other creative people together. At exhibitions, she said she often introduces photographers to other photographers, younger artists to more established artists and artists to galleries that might appreciate their work.

“I just love being open, allowing us all to connect,” Barrett said. “If we’re open to each other.” 

That instinct for connection may ultimately provide the clearest line through Barrett’s varied career. Materials and forms have changed across 57 years, but the movement between people, bodies and ideas continues.