Baret Boisson's work conveys a whimsy and personality that transcends the painted medium. Her subjects range from captains of the entertainment industry, to influential leaders, to sloe-eyed dogs -- and she treats each with a detail-oriented and unique perspective. Colors leap off ceramics, the relationship between subjects and environment melds onto board, and the viewer is enticed by a timeless curiosity and humor that invites a more intense relationship. Completely self-taught, Boisson's portraiture surpasses trends and convention to impart a deeply vibrant, joyful nostalgia.

Baret has always been surrounded by beauty. Born in Florence to two accomplished artists, she grew up wide-eyed, but with a connoisseur’s appreciation of art and its splendor. Her background includes a multifaceted childhood living in French Guyana, Dutch Guyana, and Europe, and schooling in the heart of America's art world, New York City. After majoring in political studies at Barnard College, Baret went on to work for Random House, where her passion for words and good stories fostered a successful early career.

Following several years in the high-profile world of publishing in New York, Baret relocated to California to establish a home furnishings store that featured quilts, rugs, antiques and folk art. From compiling the folk art to managing inventory, Baret was involved in all aspects of her shop on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica.

The following year was rife with environmental tribulations: extreme heat, then wild fires in nearby Malibu that covered the area with ash; torrential rains followed, which gave way to flooding. Finally, the powerful Northridge earthquake shook the area, devastating Montana Avenue and gripping Baret in a paroxysm of fear. Emotionally shaken and paralyzed by fear, Baret closed her shop. Having been diverted from a career path that had been so strongly established, now Baret had no idea what she would do next. It was from this loss and anxiety that her artistic development flourished.


One evening a close friend invited Baret to his house for dinner. Upon her arrival he laid out several pieces of cardboard and paint upon the floor and, with a laugh, suggested that the two paint. Without a moment's hesitation, Baret threw herself on the floor and began to spread colors upon the boards, not even pausing to move her board to an easel.

An obsession was instantly born. From that night Baret took to painting anything she could find: wood, vases, pitchers, cardboard and an entire line of ceramics at a local pottery studio. Slowly she began to incorporate her contagious wit and wry, playful elements. After nearly thirty years, with two artist parents and no previous professional experience in the world of art, a fresh career trajectory appeared for her; through the therapeutic process of artistic creation, Baret’s sense of humor and zeal for life had truly emerged.

Baret Boisson's commissioned portraiture is displayed in the homes of discerning celebrities and executives nationwide. Her work has been featured on the Sundance Channel and is available as notecards in fine stationary boutiques. Past projects also include quilt designs for the Judi Boisson American Home Collection, and various music and magazine projects.

Creative Process

Baret Boisson is entirely self-taught artist who believes in acting as a bridge between her subject and her art. She employs a method of gleaning details by interacting frequently with her subject. If the work is commissioned as a gift, she views photographs and asks a multitude of questions.

However, Baret’s approach is not necessarily indicative of a linear approach. She is often inspired by unexpected discoveries, interweaving process with life. She finds details that intrigue her: a sparkling diamond necklace, a koi pond, or a powerful turn of phrase such as, "Thou Shall Not Stand Idly By" – all of which have been integrated into her work. By linking her interests and attraction to the subject, Baret creates a nonpareil representation that shatters the conventional notion of portraiture. Her work is not just a depiction of the person's physique; she renders their spirit, as well.