Stompin’ Grounds - New Works by Zak Barnes

Zak Barnes is a versatile artist based out of Lawrence, KS. Born and raised in Kansas, Zak has strong ties to the Flint Hills where his parents grew up. Zak attended the Columbus School of Art and Design for several years and then settled in Chase County, KS where he built houses and spent his leisure time painting impressionistic landscapes en plein air in the heart of the Flint Hills. During this time, he developed studio work consisting of unique figurative paintings featuring scenes of strong Kansas women in rural Americana settings with a twist of surrealism and a dream-like combination of subject matter and narrative. It wasn’t long before Zak had his work featured in several Kansas galleries. In 2004 Zak moved to Lawrence, KS to live and create art full time in his rural home adding abstract paintings and sculpture to his range of work.

Zak Barnes works primarily in oil paint, but he has incorporated many non-traditional techniques over the years. His distinct style combines elements of impressionism, surrealism, regionalism and folk art coupled with a dynamic painting process and handling of his medium. Zak Barnes is often regarded as an artist’s artist because of the playful way he manipulates the elements of art and principles of design. Each piece takes on a life of its own as he interacts with it throughout the painting process causing the final product to be a record of the evolution of the work no matter what subject matter or medium he chooses.

Zak has won numerous awards in plein air competitions, taught several plein air workshops and has served as a judge in many competitions. His work has been featured in a variety of publications and he has donated his artwork and talents to many charitable organizations and events. Zak Barnes has been represented in galleries across Kansas and his work is included in permanent public and private art collections.

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