Celebrating Joy, History, and Charting an Unconventional Path.
About Vivia
Vivia Barron is a Jamaican-born visual artist, mother, and community builder based in St. Petersburg, Florida. What began as a creative journey through food—opening acclaimed restaurants like Vivia's Kitchen and Datz—grew into a multifaceted career dedicated to storytelling, health, and empowerment.
In her early years as a chef, Vivia focused on using food as a healing force, creating heart-healthy dishes that earned her recognition and partnership with the American Heart Association. That same commitment to wellness and community now informs her visual art, which centers on reclaiming and celebrating Black joy.
Her paintings—deeply inspired by her personal archive of antique photographs—shine a light on the beauty, resilience, and richness of African American life. Vivia’s work has been exhibited widely and is featured in both private and public collections, including the Seminole Hard Rock Hotels and St. Petersburg public schools.
Today, her purpose extends far beyond the canvas. As the founder of We Art St. Pete, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering BIPOC artists—especially women—Vivia is actively building a more inclusive and equitable arts community through mentorship, programming, and advocacy.
For Vivia, gratitude is a verb. Her life’s work—whether through food, art, or service—reflects a deep commitment to healing, access, and collective growth.
Follow Vivia's journey:
📸 Instagram: @viviabarronart
📘 Facebook: @viviabarronart
🌐 Website: www.viviabarron.com
📧 Email: vivia@viviabarron.com
