Bob Barker showcases art at Leeds City Museum

Inspired by the Yorkshire mill towns that shaped his youth, Bob Barker is known for his ‘Northern Impressionism’ style. Wielding a palette of blacks, greys and browns, he recreates his working-class roots through gritty depictions of work, love and play.

The oil painter launched his Northern Light collection of 30 original oils, charcoals, sketches and limited edition prints at Leeds City Museum. The landmark historical setting complemented Bob's nostalgic work, which expertly captures the Yorkshire of his youth through his adult eyes - in turn paying respect to the area that helped form the artist he is today. 

We caught up with Bob, who said: "The north is often unfairly overlooked, as artists focus on the magical light of St Ives and the romanticism of Paris instead. Through these works, I wanted to present the essence of northern life whilst also showing that the light is still as enrapturing and beautiful as anywhere else in the world."