About Us
Where Family and Art Come Together
At Barbara Hosman Art, we're more than just a business—we're three generations united by a deep desire to bring joy to others and continually follow our passions throughout life. Our mission is simple: to help others find their smile. Over the last 50 years, Barbara Hosman has captured the natural beauty of Colorado in her vibrant, textured paintings—works of art that do more than decorate; they connect. They warm hearts, spark joy, and invite viewers to see the world in a new, brighter way. Rooted in Colorado's breathtaking landscapes, each piece reflects the stunning mountains, rivers, trees, and skies that surround us, evoking the peace and tranquility of this unique location.
The Family Behind the Art
Barbara Hosman, Artist
Barbara’s journey as an artist began when she moved to Denver from rural Wyoming as a teenager. Growing up, she was always drawn to art, often doodling smiley faces, sketching her surroundings, and finding new ways to express her creativity. It was through these small acts of artistic expression that she started to uncover her true talent. She painted for years and gave paintings to loved ones. However, it wasn’t until Barbara painted a large 3x5-foot canvas for her son’s Airbnb in Granby, CO, that her artistic journey truly began to take shape. The painting was a hit among family and guests, and for the first time, Barbara realized her art could do more than just decorate spaces—it could spark emotion, tell stories, and even be sold.
Each piece Barbara creates carries a hidden smile—her signature brushstroke technique that symbolizes the joy she believes should be found in every moment. The smile invites viewers to look closer and appreciate the hidden beauty in life. Her paintings reflect a combination of her love for Colorado’s natural beauty, her personal history, and her belief in finding peace and positivity in the simplest moments. Every brushstroke tells a story—of family, of the beauty that surrounds us in Colorado, and of the smiles Barbara has carefully embedded in each piece.
Her art doesn’t just fill rooms with color; it fills them with warmth and positivity, bringing a sense of calm and happiness wherever it is displayed. It’s more than art; it’s a story of joy, connection, and the legacy of a family that loves sharing beauty with the world.
Nicholas Smith, President
As Barbara’s grandson, Nicholas has always been inspired by his grandmother’s artistic vision. Growing up with his family home covered in his grandmother's art, he spent every Wednesday painting with her, connecting over shared moments of creativity and learning the craft that would later shape his life. Many of the paintings they created together during his childhood still hang proudly in his living room, serving as a constant reminder of the bond they share—and continue to share.
Nicholas founded Barbara Hosman Art in 2024, during his MBA at Syracuse University. His decision to start the business was driven by a desire to honor his grandmother’s legacy and share her work with a larger audience. For Nicholas, this isn’t just about business—it’s about family. He carries with him the lessons learned from his grandmother: the value of patience, the importance of creating with heart, and the joy that comes from sharing art—or anything—with others. His entrepreneurial spirit, paired with his deep-rooted connection to Barbara’s artwork, makes him deeply invested in every piece and every detail of the business.
Christy Smith, Operations
Christy, Barbara’s daughter and Nicholas’s mother, has been an essential part of Barbara Hosman Art since its founding. Her house has always been covered in her mother's art and love. With over 35 years of operational experience, Christy ensures the smooth running of the business, playing a key role in logistics, financial management, and customer relations. Her work behind the scenes allows Barbara’s art to be shared with people across the country, and she is just as committed to making sure the business stays grounded in the values that make it unique: family, creativity, and love for the craft.
Christy’s presence in the company is felt not only through her operational expertise but also in the deep emotional investment she brings to the family business. As a mother and daughter, she understands the importance of family bonds and strives to infuse that sense of togetherness into the work they do—and into every interaction she has. Every order processed and every painting shipped is handled with care, as Christy ensures that each piece of art arrives at its new home with the same warmth and joy with which it was created.
Our Promise
When you choose a piece of Barbara Hosman Art, you’re not just purchasing a painting—you’re becoming part of our family that spans generations. You’re supporting a dream that unknowingly began over 50 years ago and continues to grow today. Every brushstroke, every hidden smile, and every painting is a testament to the love and passion of a family that believes in the power of art to connect and uplift. By bringing a piece of Barbara’s art into your home, you’re not only inviting beauty into your space but also bringing a little piece of Colorado’s natural wonder and the warmth of our family into your life.
The hidden smiles in each painting are not just part of the artwork; they’re part of the story. They’re a reminder that joy, connection, and positivity are woven into the very fabric of our family and our art. We want to share this with you. With each piece, we hope you find a smile that brings light to your day and warmth to your home.