Local veteran and celebrated artist Barry John MBE has been crowned winner of the prestigious British Contemporary Art Awards 2025 with his powerful piece "Celtic Roots." The announcement marks a significant achievement for the Pembrokeshire-based artist, beating out ten other accomplished finalists from across Britain.

The awards, organised by British Contemporary Art under the direction of Mark David Hatwood FRSA of the Harbour Gallery, represent the pinnacle of contemporary British painting. Barry's winning piece was selected through a combination of expert jury assessment and public voting, reflecting both critical acclaim and popular appeal.

Barry's journey to artistic success is as compelling as his work. Originally from Neyland, he served in the Army for over 23 years, with deployments spanning Hong Kong, Korea, China, Malaysia, Jamaica, USA, Germany, Poland, Cyprus, Northern Ireland, and Kosovo. These experiences deeply influence his abstract art, which powerfully combines text and imagery with historical detail to tell stories of resilience, conflict, and beauty.

While building his reputation as a professional artist, Barry is perhaps equally well-known as the founder of the VC Gallery, with locations in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock. This pioneering charity works tirelessly to support veterans and the wider community, offering counselling services, communal meals, art workshops, and outdoor activities to combat social exclusion and enhance wellbeing.

This prestigious award not only recognises Barry's artistic talent but also shines a light on Pembrokeshire's vibrant arts community.

We spoke with Barry about receiving the award...

"To be nominated in the final 10 in the UK was fantastic news but to go on to win it via public vote is something else. I had some amazing support from the Military and Pembrokeshire in the run up and was topping the tables in the voting every week, so I was a little anxious I wouldn't see it through over the voting period. The other professional artists I was up against were skilled and had impressive CVs."

 

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