Originally from Vancouver B.C., Barbara Northrup studied textile and interior design in San Francisco before moving to Coastal Georgia in the mid-90’s.  Over the years, Northrup has applied her well honed art fundamentals to many types of media including photography, painting and textile design.

Recently, she has returned to painting and set up a studio space in Brunswick, GA where she has been exploring abstract images and ideas with mixed media. Inspired by the early abstract women artists of the last century, she uses shapes lines and texture in a way she defines as controlled chaos.

Northrup has also long been fascinated with street art and graffiti and how these often-impromptu assemblages give voice to the events and issues unique to a community. Usually revolving around a theme or geographical area, Northrup creates similar abstract compilations by combining posters, stickers, cartoons, spray paint, marks and other mixed media on canvas. 

Her latest project is a collection of interactive artworks where the public is invited to add their own touches to mixed media canvases she has started.  These canvases, created by dozens or even hundreds of people become living works of art that can reflect the personality and interests of a community.

Studio tours are available by appointment. Barbara@BeachCottageStudio.com