Kahana Colors , 2023
Gregory Barnes earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Wake Forest University in 1985 and transitioned to full-time painting in 2002, a decision spurred by the realization of life's brevity following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He is renowned for his vibrant use of pastels, painting en plein air to capture the essence of his surroundings with immediacy and authenticity, as seen in works like "Kahana Colors" (2023) and "Honolula Bay" (2021). His style is marked by keen attention to light and color, drawing inspiration from both historical landscape traditions and contemporary artistic practices. His artistic philosophy is rooted in the belief that art should be an immersive experience, inviting viewers to share in his appreciation for the natural world.