About the artist
Mona Barbu is an emerging artist whose journey into the world of art took a detour before circling back to her lifelong passion. While her professional path led her through a steady career in marketing, sales, and data analytics spanning over two decades, her heart was always drawn to painting. Since starting this artistic journey, her creations have found homes in the collections of art enthusiasts across various European countries and the United States.
Q: What's the "Why?" behind Mona Barbu's passion for painting?
A: Art has been my passion since childhood and in high school I was constantly drawing and doodling. Despite my love for art, though, I was never encouraged to follow it professionally. So I ended up pursuing a bachelor's degree in marketing and delved into a career that lasted over two decades—in marketing, sales, and most recently in data analytics.
Q: What prompted the shift back to painting after so long?
I realised that I couldn't ignore my artistic calling any longer. Just before the pandemic, I decided to enroll in oil painting school. It was a pivotal moment; I felt a strong pull towards reconnecting with my creative side. Since then, I've dedicated myself entirely to my passion for painting and building an online shop to share my artwork.
Q: How has your recent formal education in oil painting influenced your artistic journey?
A: Returning to formal education in art was a turning point. The Bucharest School of Arts offered a structured path to refine my technical skills and deepen my understanding of art theory and composition. It was invaluable in elevating my craft and broadening my perspective as an emerging artist.
Q: How has your journey into art been supported?
A: I'm incredibly fortunate to have a strong support system. My husband has been my pillar of encouragement, standing by me as I made the decision to return to my artistic roots. His unwavering support has been instrumental in fuelling my passion for painting. Moreover, my family has been incredibly encouraging throughout this journey. Their belief in my talent has given me the confidence to pursue my artistic aspirations wholeheartedly.
Q: What inspires your artwork?
A: My work is inspired by the invisible rhythms of life — the quiet transformation within nature and the emotional landscapes we navigate as human beings. I’m drawn to concepts like growth, light, renewal, and the passage of time. Inspiration often begins intuitively, sparked by color or movement, and grows into something more layered and symbolic.
Q: How would you describe the essence of your art?
A: The essence of my art lies in transformation and connection. My paintings often begin from a place of play and instinct, gradually unfolding into visual metaphors — for becoming, emerging, or expanding. Each piece is not only an expression of artistic intention, but also a reflection of personal growth. I aim to convey emotion through form, color, and movement — with joy and sensibility being equally important to the process. My work is an open invitation for viewers to connect with their own stories and inner landscapes, and to rediscover beauty in both the visible world and the quieter spaces within.
Q: What message do you hope your paintings convey?
A: I hope my paintings offer a quiet space for reflection — a moment to pause, feel, and reconnect. Whether it’s a sense of light breaking through, the energy of new beginnings, or the deep calm of inner knowing, I want my work to gently speak to something real within each viewer. It’s less about delivering a fixed message and more about evoking presence, curiosity, and a sense of beauty that resonates on a personal level.
