Barbara de Mora was born in England. She emigrated to Vancouver Canada when 22 years old and five years later became a Canadian citizen. This transoceanic move was the first of nine such upheavals between Canada, Europe and New Zealand. Barb and her family learned to cope with several different cultures and languages. Having a mid-Atlantic/Pacific lifestyle has provided a base of creative experience that is manifested in both Barbara's art and writing.

The paintings of Barbara de Mora are imaginary compositions loosely based on the locations where she has lived. Each painting tells a story. Like a memory or a dream, her paintings show places and people that are a blend of reality and illusion. More recently, Barbara’s spiritual works, abstract canvases and writings reflect a growing consciousness that has been strengthened by studies as a Reiki master, palm reader and astrologer .

Barbara de Mora studied art at several institutions in Canada and New Zealand, including: Capilano Art School, Vancouver; The University of British Columbia, Vancouver; The University of Quebec, Rimouski; The Auckland Society of Arts and the Auckland Outreach Cultural Centre. She has participated in over 50 group exhibitions and has had 11 solo exhibitions in four different countries. She has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in psychology from the University of Wales, UK.