Barry Natton

Sculptor & Printmaker

OBE MA (Fine Art)

ABOUT ME

I started creating art when I started work aged fifteen as an apprentice carpenter and joiner. I would glue together offcuts of waste wood to create what I thought were interesting shapes, getting into trouble in the process from the boss for, as he put it “wasting my glue”. However, this did not put me off and I continued producing works of wood art. I was able to develop my artistic talent when I went to work in Nigeria where I designed and manufactured furniture for Costain Construction. Indeed the dining room suite we still use at home was made in my joinery works in Port Harcourt and was shipped home when I returned to the UK to get married.

Subsequent to that, I moved to what I describe as my life’s work as the Chief Executive of Riverside Housing Association. This was a demanding job and certainly wasn’t a nine to five commitment. Carole, my wife, felt I needed a hobby and saw an advert for a wood carving class in Wallasey. I duly enrolled and continued to go to this evening class for thirty years, and it was here where my carving skills were developed. Indeed I owe much to John Flower who taught me all I know about carving.

After thirty one years as CEO of Riverside I had the opportunity to retire at the age of sixty knowing that at last I could devote myself full time to developing my art. My time as an undergraduate in sculpture and printmaking was stimulating, fulfilling, and productive. In fact I loved every minute of it and went on to complete my MA awarded by Liverpool University.

Since then I have gone on to exhibit sculpture at the Grosvenor Museum in Chester, in various galleries, as well as with the Oxton Artists. Also the Willamson Art Gallery Spring Open Exhibition where I have exhibited for many years. Specific commissions include work for Jurys Inn, the Methodist Church, and Riverside as well as many pieces commissioned by individuals for whom I am always happy to give a quotation.

I hope you enjoy looking at my website. Please don’t hesitate to give me a ring or e-mail me for further information.

Barry Natton  OBE  MA (Fine Art) FCIOB

Commission from Riverside Housing Association