Since artist Barbara Eberhart’s relocation to Santa Barbara in 2014, the illustrious backdrop of Southern California has been her muse. The local flowers and foliage have been the focal point for Eberhart’s recent work – the ripening multi-colored grapes from the Santa Ynez Valley vineyards are celebrated in The Bunch and Happy while a violet water lily growing in the gardens of The Getty Villa in Malibu was the subject for Cleopatra’s Favorite. Eberhart has also been inspired by the dusty landscape of the area. “The light is different in Santa Barbara than in Hawaii.” says Eberhart. “The California sun gives everything a rich amber glow. There’s more dust in the air here, so the hues are a bit more subdued.” A softer color palette in more muted tones is especially apparent in her latest paintings California, Angel, and Innocence, which showcase glowing white flowers against dark backgrounds.

While her color palette and subjects have changed, the breathtakingly flawless blended style that she is so well known for remains a staple in her oil paintings. Eberhart’s mastery of color can be recognized in her rich portrayals of white subjects, from the milky petals of a white water lily to the pearly curves of a butterfly’s cocoon. Her joyful spirit and positive viewpoint also still shine through in her most recent work. A theme of growth and transformation has developed, exemplified in the the butterfly breaking out of its cocoon in Emergence and of the flower buds blooming in Bursting Forth. “I believe that you’re never too old to pursue your dreams. It is only our fear and ego that holds us back.” says Eberhart. “I have never been more happy than I am now.”