Michelle Barillaro: Travel

August 2-30, 2019
Michelle Barillaro: Travel
Opening reception: Friday, August 2, 5:00-9:00 PM
Gallery hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. 

This new exhibition features abstract paintings with acrylic, charcoal, and graphite.

I am native to South Florida. I moved to Knoxville more than 20 years ago and graduated from the University of Tennessee, School of Architecture. I remained in the Knoxville area after college because of the friendly folks, natural beauty and pleasant climate. Many of my paintings seem to reflect the colors, movement and serenity of the Florida coast though.

I have always had passion to create, and a unique, eclectic vision and style. My paintings are abstract in nature with a multi textural, often ethereal feel. To me an abstract is so pleasing because it allows the viewer to conjure meaning in the image and tell a story from their life experiences. I often start a painting with an idea or sketch, but don’t let that initial plan hinder me from going in a different direction as the painting evolves. I name the paintings after they are complete, often with the first thought that pops into my head.

I paint with acrylic and oil & cold wax. Both have different attributes that are pleasing, but the oil & cold wax takes several weeks to dry so I have to consider that. I like to incorporate a dash of charcoal, graphite, and pastels too. I paint with palette knives, bowl scrapers, credit cards, maybe my fingers, and an occasional hake style brush.

For more information, follow her on Instagram @m.bartist.