Neighbors

Wantagh artist has a passion for painting

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For Barbara Segal, painting isn’t just a hobby. It’s an escape. 

Segal, a Michigan native, has lived in Wantagh since 1974. For the past two decades, watercolor painting has been her passion. 

“I always loved painting, even as a child,” she said. “But it wasn’t until 1964 that I really took to water coloring.”

Segal’s art is showcased in an exhibit at the Wantagh Public Library until the end of the month. More than 20 of her watercolor works are hanging in the community room.

Segal took her first art class at the Elmont Public Library and said that she knew that she possessed a gift. Although she went on to take other lessons, Segal never attended art school and described herself as largely self-taught. 

Over time, Segal created hundreds of paintings. To date, she has taken home 55 awards in various art shows. 

“The Wantagh Library is the first place I ever showed my paintings,” she said. “I always feel so accomplished when they are finished.”

Segal is also no stranger to the area. She has led taught watercolor painting classes at the Wantagh and North Bellmore libraries for 24 years. In 2013, Segal decided to retire from teaching — but she continues to paint on her own.

Some of Segal’s favorite pieces have even been sold to local residents. Managers of commercial and professional offices have purchased many of her paintings, she noted. 

Librarian and Art Display Coordinator Jack Leone said Wantagh officials were happy to display Segal’s work. Art shows are put up in the community room regularly. 

“This is an overlooked area, in some ways,” Leone said of the room. “But when people in the community see [art], they really enjoy it. There is something different and fun to look forward to every month.”

Because she stopped teaching, Segal said that she has more time to spend with her two sons and two granddaughters. However, she will continue to paint whenever possible. 

“You have to love it because it’s so hard to do,” Segal said. “I just can’t stop, and I don’t think I ever will.”