Josephine Barreiro

ABOUT
Bio:
Josephine Barreiro, also known as J131, a talented artist hailing from Newark, NJ. With an MFA in Fine Arts and MA in Art Education from New Jersey City University and a BFA from the School of Visual Arts, NYC, her skill and education shine through in her work. Josephine's art is infused with emotion, utilizing distinct lines and bold colors that reflect her Spanish heritage. Her talent has been recognized through various exhibits and features, including the Newark Artists Photo Documentary Project in 2018 and a live painting at the Pen and Brush Gallery in NYC. In 2016, Josephine was even featured in an NYC-ARTS segment on PBS. As an active member of the Neo-Latino Art Collective and Pro Arts, she continues to create and inspire.
Josephine Barreiro has exhibited at the Fountain Street Fine Arts Gallery, Framingham, MA; Joyce Gordon Gallery, Oakland, CA; NYC Arts Empire, Pen + Brush Gallery, Wilmer Jennings Gallery, 188 Allen St. Pop Up Gallery, New York, NY; Hall of Fame Gallery- BCC, Bronx, NY; Human Rights Institute Gallery, James Howe Gallery, Union, NJ; Paul Robeson Gallery, City Without Walls, Gallery Aferro, L.I.P.S, Index Art, Newark, NJ; Art 150 Gallery, Distillery Art Gallery, L.I.T.M, Harold B. Lemmerman Gallery, Jersey City, NJ; Valley Arts Gallery, Orange, NJ; West Orange Arts Center, West Orange, NJ; Ben Shahn Gallery, Paterson, NJ; Raritan Valley Community College, Somerville, NJ; Monmouth Museum, Lincroft NJ; The Arts Guild, Rahway, NJ and UCCS Galleries of Contemporary Art, Colorado Springs, CO; among other locations
Statement:
My work examines ideas revolving around the human/animal condition and all its complexity. My surroundings provide endless inspiration for me to visually depict the world around me. Using mixed media and a range of art-making techniques, such as drawing, painting, collage, and street art, I bring my ideas to life via a visceral approach. Illustrating both real and imagined situations, I layer vibrant colors, bold lines, and intricate patterns to realize my ideas. My work delves deeply into powerful themes such as spirituality, anxiety, strength, transformation, resilience, and raw emotions.