Craig Barnes is an emerging oil painter based in Southern California. His creative journey began at a young age with a deep passion for both visual arts and music. In high school, under the guidance of an encouraging art instructor, Craig refined his oil painting skills, earning multiple awards and a scholarship from the Shadow Mountain Palette Club.

Though he began college as a fine arts major, his path shifted when he was accepted into the prestigious Musicians Institute of Technology in Hollywood, California. He went on to record, tour, and build a rewarding career as a high school music educator. However, a debilitating illness marked by severe tinnitus and sound sensitivity forced Craig to leave music behind. Returning to painting became his lifeline — or, as he reflects, “painting literally saved my life.”

Craig’s paintings merge the luminous, fluid light of Monet, the bold, expressive rhythm of Van Gogh, and the radiant, ornamental design of Louis Comfort Tiffany. This fusion creates a body of work rich in beauty, movement, and harmony — a style distinctly Craig Barnes.

Residing in Yucca Valley near Joshua Tree National Park, Craig draws endless inspiration from the desert’s dramatic landscapes. His work has been featured in juried art shows across the western United States, including La Quinta Art Celebration and Kierland Fine Art & Wine Festival. Craig is also an active member of the Desert Art Center in Palm Springs, the Morongo Basin Cultural Arts Council, and the 29 Palms Artists’ Guild.