They key to Richard “Gene” Barbera’s art is simple and straightforward graphic shapes. His bold art packs a visual punch. It's nor surprising that after obtaining a degree in graphic design at University of Hartford, and attending University of Southern Maine, Barbera worked in New York and designed large scale branding identities for companies such as Topps Card Co., Colgate-Palmolive, L’Oreal and The National Hockey League. Today, he draws most of his inspiration from recognizable coastal images and the Portland, ME area in general, where he grew up.
When he is not painting, or practicing art, Barbera travels to Madrid, Spain with his wife and two young children, where he finds more inspiration in his travels.