Larimore’s Legacy:

The Olney Heritage Museum hosted Barbara Larimore’s “Experiencing Europe” art show Thursday, Dec. 8. More than 65 visitors attended during the afternoon to see Mrs. Larimore’s works of art. The oil paintings represented her perspective of numerous European countries during her travels throughout the years.

Mrs. Larimore describes her paintings as impressionism—an art movement that developed in France during the 19th century and entailed painting outdoor scenes and landscapes such as the renowned artist Claude Monet. Some attendees commented on the similarity of Mrs. Larimore’s brushstrokes compared to other 19th-century impressionist artists.

Among numerous out of town visitors, Reta McCallum and her sister, Grace Barth and others came from Graham to attend the show. “My sister and I both enjoyed the exhibit. What a fun thing it was to do as a treat for ourselves—sort of a mini-experience of Europe. I love Barbara’s use of bright colors, and I enjoyed her impressionistic painting of sunflowers in France. My favorite, though, was the ‘Tuscan Doorway’ with geraniums lining the steps,”Mrs. McCallum said about the show. “I highly encourage my Graham friends to make that short trip to Olney to experience Europe!

Mrs. Larimore’s daughter Brenda Millican traveled from Morristown, Tennessee, to support and assist with her mother’s art show. She said she enjoyed seeing how well the community rallied around her mother’s work to support her endeavor to donate the art sales proceeds to the Keep Olney Beautiful committee.

Another daughter, Kim Tomlinson, also assisted with the art show. Mrs. Tomlinson is the Executive Director of Rathgeber Hospitality House in Wichita Falls, where the halls are adorned with Mrs. Larimore’s artwork.

In addition to the European-inspired show, guests were delighted with the unique Eiffel Tower-shaped cookies baked especially for the show by Shelia Pulliam. “I thought the cookies would be the perfect take-away gift for guests who came out to view my art,” Mrs. Larimore said. “I added bites of chocolate to accompany the unique cookies —what is better than a bite or two of chocolate?”

Mrs. Larimore said she was pleased that there was a steady flow of visitors all afternoon, and the sales and donations to benefit KOB were great.

The nine paintings that were sold will remain on display for a short time at Olney Heritage Museum along with the paintings that are still available for sale. Feel free to stop by to experience Europe at your convenience. The museum is open Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. and by appointment on the weekends. For more information, please call 940.227.4364.