For Elizabeth Barenis, art has never been a hobby. It has always been a calling.

A resident of St. Petersburg's Old Northeast for more than 11 years, Elizabeth says the neighborhood's welcoming spirit, along with its proximity to downtown and the waterfront, makes it the perfect place to live and create. Her work reflects that appreciation for beauty, inviting viewers to slow down and notice the extraordinary moments hidden within everyday scenes.

"I have always loved creating," she says. Growing up in her parents' music store in the Mississippi Delta, she was surrounded by musicians and artists pursuing their passions. That creative environment left a lasting impression and helped shape her own artistic path.

While attending Sarah Lawrence College in New York, Elizabeth explored subjects ranging from quantum physics to religion and psychology. In the end, however, she realized that visual art was the best way to express her curiosity and fulfill her purpose.

Today, she creates acrylic paintings on canvas inspired by her own photography. Her work captures the way light transforms nature, revealing fleeting moments of grace that often go unnoticed.

Elizabeth draws inspiration from artists such as Salvador Dalí for his psychological and surreal approach to painting, and Edward Hopper for his masterful use of light. Those influences can be seen in paintings that are both peaceful and emotionally engaging.

One of the most meaningful milestones in her career came last year when she completed a 1,300 square foot mural at Orlando Health Regional Medical Center. Working through three weeks of Florida heat, she transformed the tiered planters outside the hospital into a tranquil landscape of oversized water lilies in rich blues and soft greens.

The project became especially meaningful because patients visiting the nearby cancer center frequently stopped to thank her for bringing beauty to their day. It was also the last major project her mother, who had always been her biggest supporter, was able to see before she passed away.

Like many professional artists, Elizabeth has faced periods of financial uncertainty. Over the years she has worked as a waitress, grant writer, medical billing manager, and Lyft driver while continuing to pursue her passion. More than two decades later, that perseverance has led to murals, public art installations, gallery exhibitions, and commissions throughout Florida.

Her work can be found throughout St. Petersburg, including the SHINE Mural Festival, Bayfront Health, Hancock Whitney, Avanti Apartments, and numerous galleries. Her paintings have also been acquired by hospitals and organizations across the state.

Above all, Elizabeth hopes her artwork offers viewers a sense of calm and peace. Whether displayed in a home, business, or healthcare setting, her paintings are meant to create a quiet moment of reflection and serenity.

Original paintings are available for purchase through elizabethbarenis.com, where visitors can also inquire about commissions. Elizabeth can also be reached at ebarenis@hotmail.com or 662-820-5060. Follow her work on Facebook at Elizabeth Barenis Art and on Instagram @elizabethbarenis.