Barbara Bailey-Porter

About Barbara Bailey-Porter

Barbara Bailey-Porter, a renowned painter based in Santa Cruz, California, is celebrated for her vibrant and emotionally evocative abstract works. Raised in the coastal town of Santa Cruz, Barbara's deep-rooted connection to the area has greatly influenced her artistic journey. Her ancestors settled in the region in 1849, and the rich cultural and natural landscape of her hometown continues to inspire her creations. Her upbringing was steeped in creativity, influenced by her maternal grandmother, a skilled painter and artisan. This early exposure to the arts laid the foundation for Barbara's lifelong dedication to painting.

With a Master of Fine Arts from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and a Master of Art Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur, Barbara has honed her skills in both realistic and abstract mediums. Initially recognized for her plein-air landscapes and portraits, her significant life changes steered her towards non-objective and abstract expressions. Her current work explores the therapeutic potential of art, utilizing saturated colors and a combination of transparent layers and opaque brushstrokes to create dynamic pieces that resonate with the rhythm of the music she listens to while painting.

Beyond her studio practice, Barbara is deeply committed to education and community engagement. She has shared her expertise as an instructor at prestigious institutions, including the Academy of Art University and Cabrillo College, and continues to teach through the Santa Cruz Art League and her private studio. Her dedication to teaching reflects her passion for nurturing the next generation of artists, ensuring that her knowledge and experience are passed on to aspiring painters.

Barbara Bailey-Porter's work has been exhibited widely, with her pieces included in collections across the United States and Canada. Her art has been featured in numerous solo and group exhibitions, earning accolades and awards, including the Plein Air Painters of America Scholarship. As she continues to evolve her art, Barbara remains committed to her long-term goal of sustaining a consistent income through gallery representation and studio sales, affirming her position as a vital and influential figure in the contemporary art scene.