Art in the Square is pleased to announce Greg Barnes as the 2013 Artist of the Year.

Greg Barnes got his formal training at Wake Forest University, receiving a BFA in 1985. Under the tutelage of many fine instructors, he learned painting, printmaking, sculpture, and figure drawing.

Following college, Greg entered a career path that included technical illustration, computer graphics, computer-based training, and multimedia programming. Throughout those years, Greg always kept his brushes and charcoal close at hand.

After 9/11, he and his wife Janet decided to take a leap of faith, pursuing a fine art career full-time. Greg quickly found portrait work, due to his ability to capture a remarkable likeness. His versatility shines with abilities in charcoal, pastel, and oil.

Landscapes are Greg’s love. He enjoys painting on location, and as a result of working quickly, leans towards impressionism. A mix of realistic and impressionistic elements give his pieces a life of their own, while a free and creative use of color punctuates his style.

Maintaining a studio where he teaches and paints in Charlotte, NC, Greg also travels the country exhibiting at outdoor art festivals and teaching plein air workshops. He is currently represented by Coconut Grove Gallery, Miami FL and Karis Gallery in Hilton Head, SC.

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