Bob Barker - Bold & Fearless

Bob Barker notes a the gift of an oil painting set from his mother as the start of his journey as a painter. From that Christmas morning Bob was fascinated by what he could achieve with his brush and paints. Yorkshire been barker would use small pieced of board to try and achieve the look of canvas as a child.

With his mother working as a weaver in the local mill, and his grandmother also working there as the 'Cha' lady. Bob found this to be a core place of inspiration for his later works. He was inspired by all of the smells from the spinning sheds, the chatter of the workers, and the life of the people.

Despite having no formal training, Bob would try various styles and painting techniques to try and achieve the look he wanted. Using a combination of brushes and palette knives to give his work the reflection of the industrial buildings he was so fond of.

After later moving down from Yorkshire to Cornwall, Bob went on to observe prominent artists Keith English and Tom Gower. It was at that point that Bob decided he would pursue his passion as a professional artist.

However Bob's professional career didn't come back to painting for many years, as he ran his own video and media production company for over 20 years. Then in 2000 Bob came back to his original passion for painting, and began sending his work our to galleries. With his love for his nostalgic childhood memories ever present.

Bob now lives back in Yorkshire, and the views of cobbled streets and cottages are ever present. Before starting his paintings bob will work with the composition of the characters until it's just right. Then once ready, Bob lets himself get completely immersed in the painting process and usually finishes his pieces the same day.