A Fernandina native (and son of a shrimper), Brian Barnard is a familiar sight in the local art and music scene. Creative director of The Inkwell, he moves between the studio and painting at concerts or other events — anywhere the energy of a moment is worth capturing.
If you’ve been to downtown’s famous Green Turtle, you’ve probably already seen Brian’s work — the evolving murals wrapping around the fences are his.
Brian makes acrylic paintings that fold nature, music and magic together — influenced by everything from Alice in Wonderland to The Big Lebowski and Grateful Dead album covers. Inhabiting the works are his seemingly endless cast of characters with an inner life: creatures that know more than they let on…
“…characters with an inner life: creatures that know more than they let on…”
He’s been doing live performance painting since 2008 — setting up an easel, working through a set, letting the night find its way onto the picture. Pieces are often signed by the band and available to bid on, and you can find him at both the Green Turtle and at ticketed shows at The Tigre Island Room.
Have a look around, and check the FAQ for common questions. Hope to see you out there!