Barbtropolis is more than a name; it’s a world-building idea. A blend of “Barb” and “metropolis,” it reflects both the personal and the collective: a world of characters, energy, quirks, and connection. It’s the universe I’ve been building through my work — one mural, one canvas, one unexpected moment at a time.

I’m Barbara Graetzer, a Brooklyn-based artist and creative director whose work lives at the intersection of storytelling, public space, and emotional connection. Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, I’ve lived in multiple cities and countries around the world, carrying their energy and textures into my work. My practice is shaped by everyday life, the quirks of human expression, and a belief that art can spark joy and connection that transcend language and borders.

Over the years, my murals have transformed walls across New York and beyond. My characters — bold, whimsical, and full of soul — reflect an inclusive universe where imperfections are celebrated and quirks take center stage. Each piece is rooted in the small details that make us who we are, always woven into the rhythm and fabric of the everyday.

Trained in both fine art and design, I hold an MA in Illustration from the Fashion Institute of Technology and a BFA in Visual Communications from the Illinois Institute of Art. With over 15 years as a Creative Director in advertising, I’ve learned how to pair instinct with intention — bringing storytelling, cultural awareness, and a sense of craft to everything I create, while keeping the process free, alive, and led by the moment.

Beyond the studio, I’m a mother, wife, surfer, and unapologetic lover of the ocean (and of spontaneous dance parties in the living room). I believe in living with balance, mischief, and a childlike spirit — and that same energy runs through everything I create.