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Voices of Creativity

Hear the artist share his journey, challenges, and definitions of success

Barry R. Adamson

Barry R. Adamson is a Glasgow-based artist known for his evocative travel-inspired landscapes and thoughtful compositions. A graduate of Edinburgh College of Art (DipAD, 1972–1976), Barry spent 45 years as a graphic designer in publishing and design studios before retiring in 2021 to focus fully on his passion for painting. Working across oils, acrylics, watercolors, and pastels, Barry captures the beauty of the world through his personal experiences. His work often stems from sketches made during his travels, transforming fleeting moments into paintings that tell a story. From the early morning serenity of a Corfu sunrise in Gouvino Bay to the pristine wonder of Beautiful Beach, his art invites viewers to immerse themselves in the sensations of each scene. Barry’s art has been featured in prominent exhibitions, including the Society of Scottish Artists’ 30x30 Exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh, and The Big Art Show in Paisley, Scotland. His work has also gained international recognition through online showcases with galleries in Laguna Beach, California, and Brooklyn, New York.

Barry R. Adamson: A Journey of Artistic Growth and Reflection

Barry R. Adamson’s artistic journey is one of dedication, evolution, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. From a childhood love of drawing to a successful career as a graphic designer and later as a fine artist, Adamson’s path reflects a deep connection to visual storytelling and the pursuit of creative excellence.

A Passion for Art from the Start

Barry’s passion for art began in his school years, where his talent in drawing made him stand out. This early recognition inspired him to pursue art college, where he refined his skills and gained a foundation in creativity. After graduation, Barry chose to enter the field of graphic design rather than teaching, beginning a career that would shape his artistic sensibilities and sharpen his eye for composition and design.

Challenges and Perseverance

Securing his first job as a graphic design assistant at a book publishing company was not without its challenges. Instead of taking a holiday after graduating, Barry dedicated himself to finding opportunities in a competitive field, eventually landing a role that would serve as the foundation for his professional journey. Transitioning from graphic design to fine art brought its own set of challenges, but Barry’s determination to create and share meaningful work never wavered. He acknowledges the uncertainty that comes with being an artist but emphasizes the importance of believing in one’s worth and valuing the time and effort invested in each piece.

Proudest Achievements

Barry takes pride in seeing his work recognized on prestigious platforms. Having two watercolors featured in the Society of Scottish Artists’ 30x30 show at the Royal Scottish Academy in Edinburgh was a particularly significant milestone, fulfilling a long-held ambition to exhibit at this historic venue. Being named Sfumato Art Gallery’s Featured Artist in December 2023 is another highlight, marking his growing presence in the art world.

Artistic Style and Vision

Barry’s artistic style has evolved over the years, starting with ink sketches and watercolors, where bold outlines framed washes of color. Over time, he transitioned to a softer, more painterly approach using oils and acrylics, reflecting a more natural and immersive way of seeing the world. His work often explores depth through foreground, midground, and background, drawing on techniques inspired by theatrical set design and atmospheric perspective. While Barry’s artistic vision is rooted in creating images that resonate with him personally, he continues to refine his style to connect with a wider audience. He acknowledges the challenges of selling original artwork in a market that often favors mass-produced prints but remains steadfast in his belief that unique, handmade pieces hold intrinsic value.

Wisdom and Insights

Barry’s experience as both a graphic designer and fine artist has equipped him with valuable insights into composition and perspective. He encourages artists to think of their work in three-dimensional terms, paying attention to depth and atmosphere to create engaging and balanced pieces.

Support and Community

Throughout his journey, Barry has been supported by a network of loyal friends, former colleagues, and online followers. These connections, many of which stem from his graphic design days, have provided encouragement and opportunities to showcase his work.

Defining Success

For Barry, success is a multifaceted concept. It includes having his paintings regularly accepted into national exhibitions, achieving strong sales, and eventually holding a solo gallery exhibition. Financial sustainability is another important aspect, as it allows him to continue creating art while covering the costs associated with his practice.

Ultimately, Barry R. Adamson’s artistic journey is defined by resilience, adaptability, and a lifelong passion for creating. As he continues to evolve as an artist, his work serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring value of authentic, handmade art.

Barry R. Adamson’s work captures the beauty of landscapes from around the world. With a keen focus on depth, he guides the viewer’s eyes through the foreground, midground, and background, creating a dynamic, immersive experience.

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Barry’s paintings aim to share the sensory experiences of his travels. As he explains, “I got up early to sketch, then paint Gouvino Bay because I want the gallery visitor to experience the beauty of seeing the sunrise on a beach in Corfu at 6am.” His work, created in oils, acrylics, watercolors, and pastels, conveys those moments of wonder.

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"Through my paintings, I share the beauty and stories of the moments that inspire me."

Barry R. Adamson

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