Barbara J Demers
Selective inquiries welcome.

Custom work in the spirit of Barbara's originals.

Barbara's primary focus is original expressive realism paintings. She occasionally accepts commissions when the subject, story, and timing feel aligned with that way of seeing.

Zebra

Currently on the easel

Zebra

Acrylic on Canvas

A commission in progress

Before you inquire

A commission should still feel like Barbara's work.

The strongest commissions begin with trust in Barbara's eye: bold color, expressive realism, and a desire to reveal the living presence of the animal rather than simply copy a photograph.

“The goal is not a static likeness. The goal is a living presence.”

How it works

Four steps, one painting with presence.

  1. 01

    Send me their photos

    Share a few strong reference photos and the story of the animal. Barbara will look for the image with the most presence and feeling.

  2. 02

    We talk about fit

    Because originals are the heart of the studio, commissions are accepted selectively when the subject and timing feel aligned.

  3. 03

    Expressive realism

    The painting stays rooted in likeness, but Barbara uses color, gesture, and symbolic choices to move beyond the photo mold.

  4. 04

    Shipped from the studio

    Packed by hand, insured, on its way within 4–6 weeks. A little thank-you note is already in the box.

Start the conversation

Tell me about the animal.

Share the story, the reference photos, and what draws you to Barbara's way of painting. If the project feels like a fit, she’ll write back with next steps.

I read every inquiry myself. No automated responses.

Common questions

The things people most often ask before reaching out.

Anything else? Mention it in your note and I’ll answer when I write back.

  • Timing depends on Barbara's original-painting schedule, the size of the work, and the complexity of the subject. If the project is a fit, she'll give you a clear timeline before a deposit is taken.