Meet the Artist Barb Graetzer
Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Barbara Graetzer, or Barbtropolis, has spent many years of her life living in different countries and cities throughout the globe. Her journey into the art world began when she struggled to communicate in unfamiliar languages and realized that visuals speak a universal tongue. Barbara was formally trained as a graphic designer and illustrator while earning a BFA in Visual Communications from the Illinois Institute of Art in Chicago and an MA in Illustration from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York.
In her latest artistic adventure, Barbara has blended her love for surfing with her creative flair. This mashup has led her to explore a fresh visual language bursting with lively characters and creatures. As she puts it, "Surfing takes me back to my carefree childhood days, and these characters do the same. I like embracing my inner doodling child and crafting images radiating pure happiness and positivity." She is one of our exhibiting artists at the group art show on September 4th at Rockaway Beach Surf Club.
How does spending time in nature, especially by the ocean, contribute to your mental well-being and creative process?
I started experimenting with this art style at time at a similar time I began surfing. Surfing takes me back to my inner child; it connects me back to nature and the world around. Part of that is reviving the innocent dreams and hopes we held before the world's complexities intervened. I like reflecting that feeling into my work.
As an exhibiting artist at the 10th Annual Women's Surf Film Festival, what themes or messages do you aim to convey through your artwork?
That imperfections are what makes us beautiful.
My work is all freestyle and it carries with it a subtle touch of imperfection and a liberating sense of freedom.
It’s a reminder that art is about emotions, not rigid rules. My creations embrace the charm of imperfections, like the whimsical creatures of our youth, each one totally unique yet harmoniously entwined. These very quirks are what craft the genuine essence of perfection. Much like our own existence, inherently imperfect yet uniquely captivating in its beauty.
When you're not creating, what do you like to do for fun?
I mostly spend time with my family, and I try to surf a couple of times a week whenever time and conditions allow.
Where can we see more of your art?
@barbtropolis is my social media handle, both on Instagram and Tik Tok, my website, and currently I have some pieces up at Court Tree Collective, at Industry City in Brooklyn. If you’re in the area, you can stop by anytime they’re open.
