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Hidden Gems: Meet Barbara Freeman of BFree Studio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Barbara Freeman. 

Hi Barbara, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Like many people, I decided to make a career change after COVID. I looked around my house and saw the art I had purchased over the years and found it so comforting. I thought of all the young, emerging artists I met over the 40 years in San Diego and how few places they have to show their work. Now a year and a half into owning the gallery, I’ve had so much fun connecting with new people and engaging with the community. It’s amazing to see how art can inspire and bring people together. My long-term goal is to encourage others to open community galleries throughout San Diego. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been really smooth so far. Having a supportive community and meeting such wonderful artists has made this an incredible experience. One of my biggest challenges personally has been learning how artists create and think. They’re all so different from each other, yet similar in some ways. It’s very interesting to see. 

As you know, we’re big fans of BFree Studio. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I started BFree Studio over a year and a half ago to prioritize and acknowledge the artists of our community in downtown La Jolla. We do our best to have a series of shows that are innovative and highlight emerging artists within our community. Over this time, we have had an amazing selection of shows and a diverse set of artists within our gallery. I am so appreciative of all the artists within our community and the community of La Jolla. I have felt truly embraced and am forever grateful. 

We have had over 100 events, including openings, salons, lectures, and classes. These, I hope, allow anyone and everyone to engage with art. 

If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Surrounding myself with a diverse group of people has really helped us succeed. We have a very interesting young staff, including a sculptor and a painter, an arts administrator, and a college student. They bring diverse, innovative ideas to the art world, and that sets us apart. 

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