Uma Barry is a self-taught artist whose creative journey began at the age of fifteen, inspired and lovingly supported by her artistic parents. Growing up in Fiji during the 1970s, Uma faced early challenges in accessing proper oil paints and art materials. Disheartened but determined, she found a lifeline through her parents' inventive suggestion to experiment with house paints on Masonite boards. With only bold primary colours available, she quickly learned to mix her own palette, crafting her first works based on Indian mythology. These humble beginnings laid the foundation for her lifelong devotion to art.

In 1983, Uma’s life changed when she moved to Australia, where she finally had the opportunity to pursue her artistic dreams. The unwavering support of her dear husband proved pivotal, and she regards this time as an absolute miracle in her life.

Uma’s work explores a wide variety of subjects, but a consistent thread throughout her paintings is her profound fascination with light—its intensity, subtle changes throughout the day, and the way it transforms colour and mood. She is captivated by the interplay of light and atmosphere, whether in early morning mists, glowing sunsets, or the ever-changing ocean.

Travel is central to Uma’s artistic practice. She often ventures out to sketch and paint en plein air, with a particular love for the historic Shipwreck Coast, where the sunrises and sunsets bring her a deep sense of peace and calm. Uma’s portfolio spans from delicate miniatures to larger, expansive works. She has a particular fondness for painting miniatures, which she credits for sharpening her sense of composition and teaching her how to capture grand scenes within small, intimate spaces—a creative challenge she still thoroughly enjoys.

Her dedication and talent have earned her numerous awards and have seen her artworks find homes in collections around the world. A milestone in Uma’s career was her appearance in 2015 on the acclaimed TV program Colour In Your Life, hosted by the late Graeme Stevenson, a celebrated artist and the show’s visionary founder.

For Uma, painting is more than a profession—it is a vital source of healing and joy. Following the loss of her beloved mother, art became her sanctuary, a cherished connection to her wonderful family and a constant wellspring of gratitude.