Artist’s poignant reason behind raising funds for University’s Burns Unit
An artist whose children were at Valley Parade on the day of the 1985 fire is supporting the University of Bradford-based Burns Unit through sales of his painting of the modern-day stadium.
Bob Barker, known for his ‘northern impressionism’ paintings, has released a limited-edition artwork, ‘Take Me Home’, which captures Bradford City AFC supporters walking up to the club’s University of Bradford Stadium home on a matchday, to raise funds for the Plastic Surgery and Burns Research Unit (PSBRU).
Bob Barker, (second from left) with his sons (from left) Stevie, Richard and Bobby. Images credit: Castle Fine Art
His sons, Richard and Stevie, then aged 13 and nine, were in the crowd at Valley Parade on May 11, 1985, as the fire claimed the lives of 56 people, including 54 Bradford City AFC fans and two supporters from their opponents that day – Lincoln City. A further 258 people were injured.
With the help of fellow supporters, the unhurt brothers were able to climb onto the pitch and watched as the tragedy unfolded.
Never forget
Mr Barker said: “I will never forget that my lads were the lucky ones, but others weren’t as fortunate.
“The Burns Unit did so much for those who were affected and continues to do incredible work for so many people today. Raising money for them is my way of saying thank you and making sure that support is there for others when they need it most.”
‘Take Me Home’, which will raise money for the Plastic Surgery Burns and Research Unit (PSBRU), based at the University of Bradford. Images credit: Castle Fine Art
The signed limited-edition artworks are available exclusively through Castle Fine Art and are priced at £695, with £250 from each sale going to the PSBRU.
Professor Ajay L Mahajan, Director of the PSBRU, said: “Bob is a truly amazing artist whose unique style of paintings reflect the scenes and people of Bradford.
“As usual, he has created another masterpiece in his painting of Valley Parade, and it is very kind of him to donate the proceeds from this to our Unit.
“It is donations such as these that helps us continue with our work at the Unit.”
From left, Professor Ajay L Mahajan, Bob Barker and Peter Jackson, who was the Bradford City AFC captain on the day of the fire in May 1985. Images credit: Castle Fine Art
More on Bob Barker
Bob Barker, 71, who lives in Eccleshill, Bradford, is best known for his nostalgic Impressionist paintings of Northern England scenes including cobbled streets and mills.
Before becoming an artist, he worked as a butcher and videographer.
He has also donated signed limited editions of ‘Take Me Home’ to the PSBRU, Bradford City AFC, and Lincoln City.
What is the PSBRU?
The PSBRU was founded by Professor David Sharpe, who was a consultant plastic surgeon at Bradford at the time of the tragedy, following the fire at Valley Parade.
Nearly all of the Unit’s research fellows have gone on to practise as consultant plastic surgeons, improving lives both in the UK and around the world.
Artist Bob Barker is donating funds from his ‘Take Me Home’ painting to the PSBRU. Images credit: Castle Fine Art
How to buy ‘Take Me Home’
‘Take Me Home’, produced to mark the 40th anniversary of the Bradford City fire, is available through Castle Fine Art galleries and online as a limited edition of 95. Go to castlefineart.com/products/bob-barker-take-me-home to purchase the artwork.
The sale of ‘Take Me Home’ reflects the University of Bradford’s commitment to making a positive difference in people’s lives through impactful research and strong community connections. By supporting the PSBRU, the University continues to honour its local roots while driving forward health innovation that benefits people both locally and globally.
About Castle Fine Art
Castle Fine Art, which has a network of galleries across the UK, has been at the heart of the contemporary art movement for 30 years. Specialising in original fine art, hand-signed limited editions and sculptures, it unites collectors with artworks from some of the most renowned figures in the art world.
Recent releases include work by Boy George, Johnny Depp, Bob Dylan, Gary James McQueen, James Francis Gill and John Myatt in addition to renowned British sculptor, Steve Winterburn.