MILFORD MAGAZINE
Spring 2006

Illustrating Ingenuity
by Ben Dorrough

Using her computer as a palette, illustrator Barbara Fiore creates colorful and expressive illustrations for a variety of publications and websites. A web designer as well, Fiore's designs and illustrations have appeared on well-known sites such as America Online and The Smithsonian.

A NJ native and graduate of New York University, Fiore moved to Westfall PA in 1999. At her quiet home studio, she has been in business for herself as a freelance illustrator and web designer since 2002. Prior to that she was responsible for some of the most popular sites on the web, designing and launching projects like People Magazine Online and Microsoft's Sidewalk San Diego, a unique online guide for locals and visitors that showcased the sights and events of the city.

Putting the fun in functional
Fiore's style is unmistakably unique. Bright and sharp, she mixes the charm of an animated style with a nouveau-magazine edge. "I've always been a doodler," says Fiore, "Once I started working as a graphic designer, it all translated well to a digital medium."

Though illustration is her passion, Fiore got her start in graphic design at a college internship. "I consider myself an illustrator who does graphic design," says Fiore, "but some of my favorite work has included a little of both." When Fiore was the Art Director for People Magazine Online, she designed digital Valentine's Day cards that were displayed on the Jumbotron in Times Square, one of the most famous and visible screens in the country. "It was exciting to see something I created being broadcast to the center of New York," says Fiore.

Fiore's illustrations aren't confined to the realm of websites and magazines, she has also illustrated 2 children's books for Sunshine Press and has expanded her talents to include stationary and textile patterns for kids.

Art at home
Fiore isn't alone when she's preparing her creations at her home in studio in Westfall PA -- her husband, Peter Fiore (www.peterfiore.com) is a landscape painter. "We compliment each other," says Barbara. "We help each other out." Barbara and Peter met at Marywood University, where both were teaching in a summer MFA program -- Barbara in web design and Peter in painting.

There is a contrast between Peter's flowing landscapes and Barbara's vibrant illustrations, but both artists exude a passion that's clear in their work. "I'm not sure how any artist makes it on their own -- it's definitely a two person job."