Bill Barrell was born in London, England in December of 1932. He emigrated to the United States in 1954 and lived in Philadelphia for a few years before moving on to spend his early adult years in New York City.

His painting life really began when he ventured to Provincetown, Massachusetts and set up his first studio next door to Hans Hoffman’s School of Fine Art. Not having much money then he was unable to actually attend the school, but was able to learn a lot by auditing Hoffman’s critiques. He also became close friends with some of Hoffman’s students like Bob Beauchamp, Red Grooms and Bob Thompson.

Bill now lives and works in Easton, PA where he spends his days painting, and spending time with his family.