"Petals" by Barbara De Pirro

Painted Papers, Acrylic & Crocheted Stainless Steel Wire. 12” x 12” x 5”, 5 lbs. (w/o packaging). 2019.

“My artwork has always reflected my fascination & appreciation of nature; however, in the last few years this has gained even more importance. My daily nature walks have not only nurtured but have continued to inspire me, increasing my desire to highlight this invaluable resource.

This series of sculptures are created using a combination of fiber, paper, acrylic & wire -- using familiar methods & techniques in unconventional ways. The process of making becomes an art meditation, a time of reflection & growth.”

Barbara De Pirro creates biomorphic mixed media sculptures. Her observations of nature have triggered a profound admiration for its brilliance, resilience and its vulnerability. With each project she strives to create a sense of wonder; enticing the viewer to turn that vision outwards into the natural world, nurturing an understanding of that interconnection and encouraging reflection about our relationship with the environment.

De Pirro’s artwork has been commissioned and exhibited in Museums, Galleries, Sculpture Parks, Art Centers and Public Art Spaces. She is a member of Northwest Designer Craftsman and Surface Design Association. She is an Artist Trust Fellowship, Residency and GAP Grantee, Millay Colony for the Arts & Golden Foundation for the Arts Alum. De Pirro’s artwork is highlighted in multiple publications; including "Basketry Now", "Artistry in Fiber: Sculpture,” “TextileArt Around the World,” “Green Art: Trees, Leaves and Roots,” World of Threads, Fiber Art Now and Surface Design Association.

Growing up in a family of artists and designers, De Pirro’s artistic gift was recognized and nurtured at a very early age. She was exposed to a range of media, giving her a broad and varied palette in which to pull from. She has worked in various design & marketing fields, both for large companies and freelance for over 30 years. Since 2002, in combination with her own art, De Pirro has been working as an independent art instructor. She feels that this breadth of experience has given her an insight that continues to nurture and broaden her connections and view of the world.

Having lived mostly in urban settings between Los Angeles, Portland, Tacoma and Seattle, De Pirro currently resides in the South Sound area of Washington, in a beautiful rural setting, perched on the edge of the Puget Sound, where she lives closely with nature.