Barnes, Brian (1944-2021) - Demonstration Monday 21 May, c. 1990

Brian Barnes (1944 - 2021) was an English artist, muralist, and community activist best known for his ambitious public murals across south London. Born in Farnborough, Kent, in 1944, Barnes studied at Ravensbourne College of Art before attending the Royal College of Art between 1966 and 1969.

From the 1970s onwards, Barnes became closely associated with Battersea, where he lived and worked for much of his career. He gained recognition for large-scale murals created in collaboration with local communities, often exploring political, social, and environmental themes. Among his best-known works is The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, commonly known as the Battersea Mural, completed between 1976 and 1978.

Barnes also produced paintings and prints which reflected the same expressive style and strong sense of public engagement found in his mural work. His compositions are characterised by vivid colour, dynamic movement, and highly individual imagery.

Alongside his artistic practice, Barnes campaigned actively for the preservation of Battersea Power Station and wider community causes within London. In recognition of his contribution to the arts and local community, he was awarded an MBE in 2005.