Joan Barnes

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After two decades of melting, hammering, sawing, soldering, and occasionally setting things on fire on purpose, I proudly call myself a metalsmith. Creating artisan jewelry has been my joy, therapy, and slightly dangerous obsession for years. There’s just something about turning raw metal into wearable art that still gives me a thrill.

But lately, the torch has been whispering: “Try a paintbrush.”

So, I’m diving headfirst into the colorful, messy world of painting—not to abandon jewelry, but to add more tools (and probably more clutter) to my creative toolbox. I don’t know yet if I’m a pastel prodigy or an acrylic disaster, but I do know this: making art should be fun, fearless, and full of friends.

That’s why I love Fripp Island. It’s impossible not to be inspired here—by the sweeping marshes, the salty breezes, the sea turtles, and especially the community of amazing creatives who always have a brush in one hand and a glass of wine in the other.

Here’s to new mediums, new mistakes, and the magic of making art with kindred spirits.