Spring Blossom by Daniel Barnett

Spring Blossom by Daniel Barnett is seen by thousands of motorists everyday as it is situated on the side of Bailey House on Centenary Way. This is a special piece as it is one of many by local artist Daniel Barnett who sadly passed away on May 21st 2010. Daniel’s talent was evident from an early age. He always loved to draw and paint and when he was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 14 it didn’t change the person he was in any way. Despite undergoing extensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy he continued to set himself goals and managed to achieve so much. In 2008 Daniel received the ‘Princess Diana Award’ for the ability to improve and inspire the lives of others. He also received an outstanding Achievement Award and was awarded the role of ‘Ambassador of Rotherham’. He then gained an A grade in Art and many more GCSE qualifications. Whilst still at school Daniel was consequently diagnosed with kidney failure. That didn’t stop him from continuing his studies at Thomas Rotherham College. After only a few months Daniel had a relapse with his cancer, which had spread to his lungs. Having to start dialysis and chemotherapy was arduous and very time consuming, even so Daniel managed to produce the most amazing art work and achieved an A grade in A’ level Art. Daniel went on to study the Foundation Diploma in Art and Design course at Rotherham College of Arts and Technology. Despite his deteriorating health Daniel excelled in his studies producing a portfolio of artwork that gained him a place at Goldsmiths University London. Daniel was a confident spokesperson for cancer causes and took every opportunity to raise awareness of the illness. Daniel featured on ITV news and BBC national news discussing teenage cancer and also spoke on a number of radio stations. Yet more of Daniel’s achievements include an invitation to the Royal College of Art to produce a painting that was sold at the London Frieze Fair to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust. In 2010 Daniel was able to achieve the dream of a lifetime when he was invited to exhibit his work at Christie’s auction house, London. Sadly Daniel died on 21st May 2010 before being able to take up his place at Goldsmiths University aged just 19. Daniel was a caring, open person who made friends easily and left an impression on all of those who knew him. Over the past five years Daniel and his family and friends have dedicated their spare time to helping others and have undertaken extensive fundraising. His legacy continues and in 2011 Gallery Town displayed four of Daniel's paintings on buildings around Rotherham generating an interest from the wider public. This led to the painting shown on the left being used by RMBC's "Picture This" project to inspire schoolchildren of all ages to be creative. After positive feedback from schools and parents Daniel's family have now decided to set up a charity of their own to carry on Daniel's work.
0