Barnes creates narratives that evolve from the subconscious. The images exist as reactions to or reflections of the world and events that take place around him. They are intended to pose psychological dilemmas and create mysteries, in which the viewer is challenged to solve and / or interpret. The overall style of his work is greatly inspired by science fiction literature and cinema, music, travel, and gardening. His art is the center of his life where all of his interests and experiences melt together. Barnes has had numerous residencies, including two at the Frans Masereel Centrum Residency in Kasterlee, Belgium. He is an Associate Professor of art in printmaking at Northern Illinois University. He has exhibited his work widely internationally and has work included in numerous public and private collections. BC Artist-in-Residence, 2006
