Jo Ann Barbis

Respected Sacramento, California artist, Jo Ann Barbis, expresses her new found “island lifestyle” in recent paintings capturing unique activities and places well-known to residents and tourists alike as the allure of the Big Island. Barbis finds inspiration in simple visits to local beaches, farmers markets, and coastal and inland towns. Her paintings capture the charm and attachment one feels while “experiencing a perfect day!” She has a trained eye for telling a story in her paintings that offers a glimpse into the sheer delight of the moment. Hawaii island is known as a peaceful, restful and richly cultured tropical paradise. The island offers a plethora of positive experiences and Barbis bridges those emotions and experiences from canvas to beholder.

Upon retirement, in 2006, Jo Ann and her husband become residents of North Kohala. In addition to many juried shows in Northern California, Barbis is now preparing for her eighth solo show, April 2010, in Sacramento. “Island Lifestyle” will be subject of the show. Her medium of choice is alkyd oil (oil mixed with resin), which affords quick drying and an opportunity to glaze one color over another.

Barbis attended the University of California at Berkeley where, in 1955, she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Fine Art and Decorative Art. She was a resident of Sacramento, California from 1963 to 2006.