We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Petra Baral a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Petra, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you tell us about a time that your work has been misunderstood? Why do you think it happened and did any interesting insights emerge from the experience?

Absolutely. Throughout my career, there have been several instances where my work has been misunderstood or mischaracterized. One notable example is my painting “The Visions” from 2007, which was actually inspired by this very topic. The piece explores how each viewer perceives something different in a work of art, often taking what they see at face value without delving into the deeper meaning or message that the artist intended to convey. While I don’t mind this—after all, art is a highly personal experience for both the artist and the viewer—it has led to some interesting misinterpretations.

A recurring mischaracterization that has become more frequent is the comparison of my work to that of Romero Britto. While I understand that these comparisons are likely well-intentioned, they can be discouraging. My artistic style was established in the early 1980s, well before Britto became famous, during my time studying graphic design at an art school in Stuttgart, Germany. Even then, my work was distinctive enough that my peers and professors could identify it without my signature. To suggest that my art is derivative of someone else’s implies a lack of originality, which couldn’t be further from the truth. My art is deeply rooted in personal experiences, mythology, and storytelling—it’s much more than just paint on canvas.

My work is not intended to be just decorative; it’s a glimpse into my life, history, our shared human experience, and perhaps even a reflection of the viewer’s own life.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Petra Baral, an artist and author based in Stuttgart, Germany. My artistic journey began with a deep passion for painting, which led me to study at Freie Kunstschule in Stuttgart. There, I developed my distinctive style that blends vibrant colors, abstract forms, and the timeless themes of Greek mythology. Over nearly four decades, I’ve crafted a body of work that resonates with the universal stories of love, nature, and the human experience, usually through the lens of mythology and/or history.

My mission is to inspire and connect with people through my art, whether it’s a painting, a piece of pottery, or a poem. I aim to create works that not only add beauty to the world but also provoke thought and emotion. I’m committed to addressing important social and environmental issues through my art. My style is unmistakably bold, with a focus on color and form that has become my signature. I take pride in having built a network of international collectors and art lovers who appreciate the depth and vibrancy of my work. My art is more than just a visual experience—it’s a journey through history, myth, and personal reflection.

I offer a variety of original artwork, from acrylic paintings to ceramics and sculptures, each piece designed to provoke thought and inspire imagination. In addition to original artwork and ceramic figures, I provide prints of my work and have expanded into merchandise, including t-shirts and hoodies that feature my art. This allows fans and collectors to bring a piece of my creative world into their daily lives.

I’m particularly excited about my upcoming release, the collector’s edition hoodie titled “Fairy World – Remixed,” which will feature an embroidered artist’s signature. It’s a spin on one of my most iconic paintings, “Fairy World,” and it also includes a poem dedicated to and inspired by the artwork.

Whether you’re an art collector, a lover of mythology, or someone looking to add a splash of color to your life, my work is designed to connect, inspire, and bring a touch of mythological magic into your world.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

The core mission behind my creative journey is to inspire reflection and connection through my art. My work draws heavily on the rich narratives of Greek mythology, which I blend with contemporary themes to explore universal human experiences such as love, nature, and the cycles of history. I believe that art has the power to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and foster dialogue on important issues of our time, such as environmental conservation and social equality. My goal is to create art that isn’t just visually striking but also offers new perspectives, encouraging viewers to dream, reflect, and engage with the world around them.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Society can best support artists by appreciating and supporting the work of living artists who haven’t yet found widespread fame. Developing a personal connection with art, rather than merely following trends, is key. While original paintings might not always fit into everyone’s budget, art prints and merchandise are excellent alternatives for supporting an artist’s craft. Sharing your favorite artwork with friends and family is a free way to show love to an artist, which is always appreciated (just don’t forget to give credit and ask permission before reposting someone’s work).

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ww.petra-baral.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petraangelabaral
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/petra.baral.9/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petrabaral/
• Twitter: https://www.x.com/petrabaral
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMx1o-CMVM1fKMv5HRSgM1A
• Other: Shop: https://petra-baral-shop.fourthwall.com/en-eur/

Image Credits

© Petra Baral Fine Art