The work of Shelly Barq celebrates the mystical nature of the animal kingdom. By highlighting the creative and curious nature of these intricate creatures, Barq brings her portraits of animals to life. Her technical mastery combined with her eternal connection to the natural world delivers her unique and powerful depiction of wildlife. The focus of the gaze on predominantly endangered species sheds light on their fragile and temperamental nature, which is a universal concern. Barq’s attention to detail breathes essence into these creatures, reiterating their importance and breathtaking form.

The stark contrast of white charcoal on black paper is an inverted play on typical charcoal portraiture. The modern take on classical photorealism and drawing, creates Barq’s unique style. Her work depicts a cutting edge take on the natural world, which without a glance of her work, sounds like an oxymoron. Barq underwent formal training at the New York School of Visual Art. She also has her BFA in graphic design from Southern Mississippi and her MFA in studio art with emphasis in painting from the University of New Orleans. Her focus on photorealism and portraiture inevitably influenced her current animal series: Vanishing Realities: A Portrait of Endangered Existence. However, it is the combination of her creative nature, formal training, and passion for animals which conceives her notable style.

Shelly Barq is originally from Biloxi, Mississippi. She currently splits her time between Biloxi and Nashville, creating artwork in both destinations. Animals are not just her inspiration, but also a cause she cares deeply for. Her innate desire to draw animals is parallel to her innate desire to help them. She hopes to not only spread awareness on how our human actions impact wildlife, but also raise money for conservation efforts.

A portion of the proceeds from her artwork sales are donated to The New Orleans Audubon Nature Institute. The contribution directly benefits their conservation efforts and serves as a testament of Barq’s commitment to protecting the natural world through her art.