Barbara is an acclaimed artist whose evocative landscapes, cityscapes and still life paintings have earned her recognition among many collectors and galleries. Born in Massachusetts, Barbara’s early years were shaped by the vibrant colors of New England’s seasons and the rugged beauty of its forests and coastline. These formative experiences planted the seeds of artistic curiosity that would flourish throughout her life.

Early Life and Education

Barbara’s journey began in Massachusetts, where she developed an affinity for the outdoors and an eye for the subtle play of light and shadow in nature. From childhood, she was captivated by the act of creation—sketching the woods near her home, painting the ever-changing skies, and historical building in her environment. After a career in internet technology and an education in Computer Science, Barbara’s innate love for art guided her to pursue an art degree at the California College of the Arts in Oakland.

At CCA, Barbara earned a degree in Painting & Illustration, graduating with High Distinction and going on to earn teaching credentials in art. Her training provided her with a strong foundation in both the technical and conceptual aspects of art. She works in oil paints, acrylics and resin, constantly seeking new ways to express her vision. During her studies, she learned not only the mastery of technique, but also the importance of personal voice and narrative in art.

Professional Recognition and Gallery Representation

Barbara Davies’ commitment to her craft has been recognized through numerous awards. Her work is exhibited in group and solo shows, earning praise for both its aesthetic excellence and its vivid portrayal of nature. Barbara’s paintings are celebrated for their ability to transport viewers into the heart of the landscapes she chronicles, allowing them to experience the atmosphere and emotion of each scene.

She owned and operated Art on the Lane Gallery in Danville CA  and has been represented by galleries in New England, Lahaina HI, Reno and Las Vegas NV,  Carmel, Danville, Alamo, Clayton, Lincoln, Sacramento, Truckee and Placerville CA.  Through these partnerships, Barbara’s work reaches a broad audience, both regionally and nationally. Her pieces are collected by private patrons and institutions alike, reflecting the universal appeal of her art.

Currently residing in Loomis and Truckee California, Barbara finds endless inspiration in the natural world surrounding her. The Sierra Nevada mountains, with their dramatic peaks, crystal lakes, and ancient forests, are a constant muse. This region is not just the backdrop for her life, but the living, breathing heart of her artistic practice.

Barbara approaches her craft with adventurous spirit and relentless curiosity. She travels extensively in search of new painting locations, often hiking remote trails, driving off-road across rugged terrain, kayaking or horseback riding to secluded areas. These journeys are a creative quests, each one an opportunity to encounter and capture nature off the beaten trail.

Plein Air Practice and Artistic Process

A hallmark of Barbara Davies’ practice is the act of starting a painting on location, directly from life. With her drawing and painting supplies packed in her backpack and camera in hand, Barbara sets out into the landscape of the Sierras. She seeks the interplay between light and land, the shifting moods of sky and water, and the echoes of time etched into rock and tree.

Barbara plein air paintings capture the essence of a scene in paint. The studies allow her to record the fleeting effects of atmosphere and light. She complements her sketches with photographs, which serve as reference material in her studio, where she can revisit and refine her visual impressions.

Back in her studio, Barbara transforms these field studies into fully realized paintings. Her process is both intuitive and rigorous, blending the immediacy of the plein air experience with thoughtful composition and detail. She works in layers, building color and texture to evoke the vibrancy and depth of the landscape. Through this synthesis of direct observation and studio work, Barbara creates art that resonates with authenticity and emotion.

Artistic Philosophy

Barbara believes that art is a way to communicate the wonder and complexity of the natural world. She is guided by a philosophy of exploration—both geographic and creative. For Barbara, each hike, ride, drive, or paddle is an invitation to see anew; each sketch and photograph is a record of discovery. Her paintings reflect not only the beauty of her subjects, but also the artist’s response: a sense of awe, gratitude, and stewardship.

She strives to create works that invite viewers to look more closely, to appreciate the interplay of light and form, and to feel a connection with wild places. Through her art, Barbara hopes to inspire others to cherish and protect the landscapes that sustain and uplift us.

Beyond the studio, Barbara advocates for environmental stewardship, often lending her talents to conservation causes by donating paintings to auctions and fundraisers, and providing a percentage of sales to land conservation and wild horse management.