Joanna Barnum

About the Artist

Joanna Barnum uses watercolor to express universal emotional states and the unique spirits of her portrait subjects, balancing experimental, abstract use of the media with sensitive realism and symbolism. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2006, and has since made her living as an artist across the realms of fine art, illustration, and teaching. She is a Signature Member of the National Watercolor Society and serves on the board of the Baltimore Watercolor Society. Joanna's work has been recognized by American Illustration, Illustration West, the “Splash: The Best in Watercolor” series from North Light Books, and at juried watercolor society exhibitions and plein air painting competitions around the country. She has worked with clients including AARP, Cricket, Faerie Magazine, Eating Well, and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Joanna also travels nationally as an instructor and judge for artist groups. Joanna currently lives in Harford County, Maryland with her husband and their greyhound (and studio manager) Zephyr.

Artist's Statement

I use watercolor to simultaneously express universal emotional states and the unique spirits of my portrait subjects. I balance experimental, abstract use of media with carefully observed realism. My hope is that the viewer may feel a sense of commonality or vicarious catharsis through the emotions conveyed, which include the exploration of female rage as well as more subtle emotions such as mindfulness, nostalgia, and longing. However, it is important to me to also portray my subjects as individuals, rather than generic symbols or decorative objects.