David Bareford was born and raised in New Jersey and spent his summers on Barnegat Bay, Lake Champlain and Long Island Sound, fishing, swimming and sailing. Always interested in drawing and painting he was dubbed an artist by friends in grammar school. He began to paint in watercolor soon after graduation from the University of Montana. Compelled to live near the ocean he moved from New Jersey to Rockport, MA where he became a part of that historic seaside artist’s colony. New England had worked its magic on another young painter intent on finding his place in the world of Art. He felt a strong connection with Cape Ann right from the start.

He achieved success early and had his work regularly shown in the exhibitions of the American Watercolor Society becoming a signature member. He exhibited with Allied Artists of America and the National Academy of Design during this period. Eventually, he turned his attention from watercolor to oil painting seeking to expand his vision and artistic expression. His paintings are distinctive in their rich use of color and his ability to “capture the moment”. 

In the late 1980s, David relocated to the seaside town of Stonington, CT to establish his own studio and continue to work in oil. Over the years and to this day, he has worked with many wonderful galleries and art dealers to whom he has immense gratitude for their guidance, and more importantly, their friendship. 

David has painted pieces in many of the major New England seaside areas including, but not limited to: Martha’s Vineyard, Boston, Portland, Newport, Nantucket, Mystic, Gloucester, and so many in between. He also enjoys creating landscapes and winter scenes from areas such as Stowe, the Berkshires, and Concord to name a few. 

In 2019, David returned to residing in Cape Ann and he continues to paint both in the studio and plein air to this day. Moved by the subjects that interest him, he strives for continuing excellence. David has achieved international recognition with his large catalog of marine paintings, rowing paintings and his multitude of commissioned works. He is an elected member of many professional art organizations including the Copley Society of Boston. He is a Fellow of the American Society of Marine Artists and he has served as the managing Fellow and been a member of the board. He continues his membership in Rockport Art Association as well. 

Outside of the studio, David is known for his easy-going nature, and good humor. He enjoys spending time outside as soon as the New England weather allows with friends and family, reading, and listening to his favorite music, including Motown, the Beatles, the Beach Boys, and many others.