The Artistic Legacy of Taos: A Hub of Mystical Energy and Creative Inspiration

The Taos Society of Artists, founded in 1915, helped shape the town into a creative hub, drawing in a wide range of artists, writers, and intellectuals. Pioneering figures like Georgia O’Keeffe, D.H. Lawrence, and Ansel Adams were drawn to Taos for its dramatic scenery, its spiritual energy, and the deep connection to indigenous cultures. The Society not only celebrated the natural beauty of the region but also fostered a dialogue about the intersections of modernist art and Native American traditions.

The World Heritage Site of the Ancient Taos Pueblo

The Taos Pueblo plays a significant role in this cultural tapestry. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America - a UNESCO World Heritage site that is over 1000 years old - it embodies a spiritual and artistic heritage that influences the region’s creative output. The Pueblo’s sacred lands, with its ancient adobe buildings and spiritual traditions, have provided inspiration for countless artists. The mystical energy of the area, blending Native American heritage with a rich history of artistic experimentation, creates a space where creativity flows freely and inspires profound works of art.

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San Francisco De Asis Church in Rancho de Taos


For Barbara Cleary, Taos was not just a place—it was a profound source of inspiration. One of her most compelling muses is the iconic San Francisco de Asís Church in Rancho de Taos, a landmark that has been immortalized by many artists, including Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams. Known for its stunning adobe architecture and breathtaking views, the church stands as a testament to Taos’ unique cultural and spiritual energy.

Pictured: "San Fransisco De Asis"

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Barbara’s abstract renditions of this historic structure capture its essence in a bold, modern way. Her use of color, light, and form in these pieces goes beyond the traditional representation, embodying the mystical energy of the church and its surrounding landscape. This blend of abstraction and reverence for Taos’ artistic legacy is a hallmark of Cleary’s work, reflecting the region’s profound influence on her creative journey.

The Iconic Gathering Place of the Mabel Dodge Luhan House

The Mabel Dodge Luhan House in Taos stands as an iconic landmark and a historic gathering place for artists, writers, and visionaries. In the early 1900s, Mabel Dodge Luhan, a wealthy patron of the arts, opened her home to a circle of creatives, including D.H. Lawrence, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Ansel Adams. This sanctuary became a vibrant hub for intellectual and artistic exchange, deeply influencing the Taos art scene. The house itself, with its distinctive adobe architecture and stunning surroundings, remains a symbol of the cultural renaissance that Taos experienced, fostering connections and collaborations that shaped the town’s legacy as an artistic haven.

Pictured: "Dodge House"

Step into the heart of Taos’ artistic legacy with Barbara Cleary’s radiant oil painting, "Dodge House." This warm-toned 16x20 inch artwork captures the iconic adobe structure of the historic Mabel Dodge Luhan House—its glowing red and orange hues echoing the passion and creative fire that once gathered there. This painting is more than architecture—it is a portal into a moment of cultural blossoming, a time when the mystical light of Taos first captured the hearts of creatives from around the world.

Mabel Dodge Luhan House

Finding Inspiration in Nicolai Fechin's Oil Paintings

Nikolai Fechin, renowned for his bold brushwork and expressive portraiture, has had a profound influence on Barbara Cleary’s exploration of oil painting. Fechin’s time in Taos, where he became part of the town’s vibrant artistic community, inspired countless artists with his mastery of light, form, and texture. Barbara, drawn to his ability to infuse raw emotion into his work, found in Fechin’s legacy a powerful catalyst for her own artistic journey. His presence in Taos, along with the rich cultural and natural beauty of the area, continues to shape Barbara’s path, encouraging her to push the boundaries of oil painting while honoring the spirit of the Taos art movement.

Pictured: "Spring in Taos"

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Georgia O'Keeffe's Powerful Influence on Taos and Abiquiu

Georgia O'Keeffe’s influence on Taos and the surrounding region is undeniable. Her home in Abiquiu, just a short distance from Taos, became her personal sanctuary where she found inspiration in the dramatic landscapes of northern New Mexico. O'Keeffe’s iconic depictions of the area's vibrant deserts, mountains, and skies captured the mystical beauty of the land in a way that resonated deeply with the spirit of Taos. Following in O'Keeffe’s footsteps, Barbara Cleary has embraced the same spiritual essence of the area, using her own unique artistic vision to capture the vivid colors, textures, and energy of the region.

Pictured: "Georgia O'Keeffe's Garden"

For Barbara Cleary, Taos was her muse. Many of her works are deeply inspired by the mystical energy of the region. From the vivid, glowing landscapes of the Southwest to the delicate portrayal of flowers and abstract forms, Cleary’s art embodies the essence of Taos’ vibrant artistic community. Her connection to the Taos Society of Artists and the cultural richness of the Pueblo is evident in her exploration of light, color, and emotion, reflecting the same energy that has captivated generations of creatives.

At Barbara Cleary Designs, her artwork takes center stage in a collection that celebrates the region’s rich cultural legacy. Whether through her stunning landscapes, abstract pieces, or floral representations, Cleary’s work continues the tradition of capturing Taos’ soul—a place where the land, light, and people converge to create a truly unique and mystical artistic experience.

The influence of Taos, its artistic colony, and its deep cultural roots is woven into every piece of artwork at Barbara Cleary Designs, making it not just a collection of art, but a tribute to the enduring spirit of this magical place.

A Love Affair with New Mexico

Discover how artist Barbara Cleary was inspired by the Taos Society of Artists and women like Georgia O’Keeffe. Her journey to northern New Mexico led to a powerful collection of oil and watercolor paintings capturing the region’s light, spirit, and timeless beauty.
Barbara Cleary is an acclaimed American painter whose vivid oil and watercolor works capture the timeless beauty and spirit of the American Southwest.

Pictured: "Hacienda Rendezvous"

Learn More About Barbara's Story

Georgia O'Keeffe Lands Collection

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Abstract Pueblo Collection

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Spirit of the Southwest Collection

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Barbara Cleary's Legacy in American Art


Barbara Cleary's artistic legacy shines brightly through her stunning collection of products, each piece a testament to her mastery and vision. Renowned for her breathtaking landscapes, Southwestern scenes, and vibrant abstract designs, Cleary’s work reflects her deep connection to the Taos region and its artistic heritage. Studying the rich history of the Taos Society of Artists, Cleary was inspired by their dedication to capturing the essence of the Southwestern landscape and culture, which has profoundly influenced her own artistic journey. Her landscapes, influenced by her time in Taos, evoke the rugged beauty of New Mexico, while her vibrant abstracts explore color and form with emotional depth. Cleary’s work has earned her a prominent place in prestigious institutions such as the Mabee Gerrer Museum of Art, the Museum of the Southwest, and the Rockwell Museum of Corning, NY. Her paintings, including captivating floral and abstract oil artworks, are celebrated for their intricate details and emotional depth. By featuring Cleary’s artwork on our exclusive range of candles, mugs, and water bottles, we honor her artistic contributions and bring a touch of her elegance and beauty into your everyday life. Explore our collection to experience the enduring charm and artistry of Barbara Cleary, and celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate, deeply rooted in the artistic traditions of Taos.