Barbara spent 30 years as an independent sales representative in the furniture and design industry. Upon retirement in 2009, the opportunity to paint looked like a perfect way to release tension and still use the color, design and artistic talents that were learned and acquired in her business career. Photographs collected on trips to Italy and Europe are the inspiration source for her work – architectural features, stairways, doors, landscapes and gardens. She is most comfortable using heavier textures with palette knife techniques and vibrant color blends. They give here work a “painterly” feel. Barbara is a member of the Artists of Palmer Ranch, joining in 2010, and has participated in shows with the group in several venues in the area. Her work has been shown at Unity Church, Arts Advocates Gallery in Siesta Mall, and the Ace School on Proctor Road. She has also shown in local Italian Restaurants in the area. She has a painting in the Art Center of Sarasota Members Show during the month of February.

Barbara spends volunteer time at the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art giving guided tours through the Ca’d’Zan mansion. This was the winter home of the Ringling’s of circus fame. The grandeur of this Venetian Gothic palace on Sarasota Bay has been reflected in some of her work.