Finding Joy in Every Stroke: The Art of Carol Cole
At the recent October 2024 Backyard Bolton, one of our vendors was watercolor artist Carol Cole. We’ve had people contact us to try to purchase her work, so we thought we’d do a quick profile on her art and what inspires her. Who better to give us her story than her granddaughter?! Katherine Babbit is also a great writer who has captured what motivates artist Carol Cole and how she got started.
Carol Cole Profile: By Katherine Babbit
Carol Cole of Wentworth, NH, embodies the timeless nature of creativity. A mother of seven with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she rekindled her passion for painting after retiring from a career as a mental health counselor and social worker for the state of New Hampshire.
Growing up amidst the picturesque landscapes of New Hampshire, Carol has always felt a deep connection to her surroundings: “I’ve always wanted to live in a beautiful landscape, and growing up here, it always felt like home.” Her love for the four seasons, especially winter and the rustic charm of trees and barns around Wentworth inspire her artwork. “We are slowly losing these beautiful antique barns and rugged scenery to new developments,” she laments, explaining her desire to preserve them through her paintings.
Although she painted in her youth, it wasn’t until retirement that she fully immersed herself in Art. “I grew up painting, but finally had the time,” Carol explains. A watercolor class reignited her passion. She encourages others to explore their creativity regardless of age: “Just go for it! Painting is a form of expression, and everyone has their own way of putting themselves out there. I found my form of expression after my 50’s.”
One of her most cherished works is a painting of an old red barn with a barn cat in the doorway.“I love the look and feel of the barn; it brings me back to my childhood,” she reminisces.
Carol hopes her paintings transport viewers into the scenes she so lovingly recreates. “I hope they feel like they are inside the painting, looking at the scenery in real time. I want to convey the same memory I see to the viewer.”
For Carol, painting is both relaxing and meaningful. “The act of painting, no matter if it’s a large piece or tiny, brings me joy,” she shares. “I may not be painting the Mona Lisa, but I find joy in every brush stroke and every line, and it brings me peace.”
At the recent 5K Festival, Carol sold several pieces, raising $370—a testament to her talent and the community’s appreciation.
Creativity runs deep in Carol’s family. Her twin daughters, Sharon and Karen, are professional knitters who have been featured in Vogue magazine on multiple occasions. Taught the basics by Carol, they further honed their skills by a neighbor, mastering the craft of Irish knitting. Known for their charitable spirit, they often donate sweaters, hats, mittens, and scarves to those in need. “Giving back, even if it’s as small as mittens, makes us feel as though we are able to keep another set of hands warm this winter season,” they share. Their collections can be found at craft fairs around New Hampshire and Massachusetts, and they accept commissions for custom pieces.
Those interested in Carol’s paintings or Sharon and Karen’s knitwear can contact Carol’s daughter-in-law, Martha Babbit. A Bolton resident for 30 years, Martha proudly showcases their work in her home and serves as the point of contact for commissions and inquiries. Martha’s email is: babbitmartha@gmail.com
Note: A couple of attendees of the October 2024 Backyard Bolton were excited about their finds, noting that the sweaters were inexpensive and well made, and the painting (just above of the red barn) was a perfect fit for her home.
Backyard Bolton: To learn more about the dozens of vendors that attended the event, click HERE for the Destination Bolton Facebook page. There will be upcoming Backyard Bolton events coming up in the spring, summer, and fall of 2025! Check the page for updates!