Underneath: The Creative Photography of Tonya Barnes

Fort Myers, FL – In the month of October, DAAS CO-OP Art Gallery & Gifts Presents the amazing photography and hand-crafted props by Tonya Barnes. The opening reception is scheduled for Friday, October 6, 2023, from 6:00pm to 9:30pm, in conjunction with the monthly Fort Myers Art Walk event. The exhibition will be on display through October 29, 2023.

The pieces in UNDERNEATH are works from a darker part of the Barnes’ mind. They feature powerful feminine and masculine energies focused on what is under the surface. “It’s the bones, the flesh and the grit of my work.” – explains the artist. “These pieces show what happens when I am unable to plan a project, as they are the most spontaneous part of me.” – add Barnes, who considers her works to have a direct connection to her emotional and controversial past.   

Barnes is certainly not afraid to ruffle some feathers, especially when it comes to creating art.  “If it gets people thinking and questioning what’s going on around them, then I will count myself as a successful artist.” – comments the photographer, who is also an incredibly talented craftswoman. All the masks and chest pieces her models wear are created by her. “When people ask me what type of artist I am, I have no real answers for them.” – comments Barnes, adding that “Necessity is the mother of all creation” is her favorite go-to quote and has been for years. “I’m someone who cannot visualize due to aphantasia or follow plans; and am partially blind, thanks to a brain injury.” – she confesses. 

This talented artist explains that, when it comes to photography, she is often called out [by other photographers] on my theory and concepts. In the professional world, she raises a lot of eyebrows. “In the end, photography is more something I do for myself, how I feel and how I heal, and art has been my way to communicate for the last 20 years. Art will always be my therapy.” – concludes Barnes. 

DAAS CO-OP Art Gallery & Gifts is located at 1815 Fowler Street, in the Butterfly Estates complex in Fort Myers, FL. The gallery’s business hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 3pm. More information about the venue and/or how to become a member can be found at daascoop.com or by calling 239-590-8645.