Barbara Cleary was first a master of the watercolor medium before experimenting with oils. Seeking to capture more vivid color in her work, she now works full time in oils, either in her studio or painting landscapes outside in a variety of locations. Barbara Cleary is compelled to capture the essence of nature, which she believes to be the source of all creative thought and energy. She draws creative inspiration from the earth's natural environments, stating "All art has to do with nature. It is a part of everything and the source of everything. Intuitively, I think all artists are compelled to imitate nature in their work."