Gallery Town Returns to Rotherham with tribute to a talented Young Artist

Posted: June 12, 2025

In 2025, Gallery Town will officially relaunch across Rotherham town centre, bringing a fresh wave of public art to the streets, with vibrant new artworks appearing on buildings and landmarks.

One of the most prominent installations will appear on the side of Bailey House, visible from the A630 (Centenary Way). This key site will honour the memory of Daniel Barnett, a gifted young artist and former student of Thomas Rotherham College and Rotherham College of Arts and Technology. Before his untimely passing, Daniel had been accepted to study at Goldsmiths, University of London. A passionate advocate for cancer awareness, he appeared on national news channels including ITV and the BBC, using his voice to campaign for teenage cancer support. He was also honoured as an Ambassador of Rotherham.

Daniel's artwork, currently displayed as a striking 6m x 6m piece on Bailey House, reflects his deep creative spirit. His work has been shown at prestigious venues including Christie’s and Frieze Art Fair and is held in private collections.

In partnership with Daniel’s family, Gallery Town and FLUX Rotherham are launching a legacy art programme in his name. This annual opportunity invites young artists from Rotherham, aged 16–25, to submit uplifting, joyful 2D artworks for large-scale public display. Each year, one artwork will be selected for installation on Bailey House, ensuring Daniel’s legacy lives on by inspiring and supporting new talent.

Helen Jones, Programme Director of FLUX Rotherham, said: “Over the summer, people will start to see new artworks popping up across Rotherham, as we’re busy working behind the scenes with artists, community groups and schools to create new original works. We’ll soon be launching an artist call-out for professionals to support co-created artworks, and we’re really thrilled to collaborate with Daniel’s family on commissioning a special piece for Bailey House, drawing on Rotherham’s amazing young talented artists.”

Photo Credits: Kerrie Beddows for Rotherham Advertiser.
Left to right: Sarah Mellor (Thomas Rotherham College) and Diane Barnett

Call for Submissions Now Open

Young artists are encouraged to apply - whether they’re currently working on exam or degree portfolios, or already have a body of work ready to share. Artworks should be in a 3:2 landscape format and free of offensive content.

For more details go to: Emerging Artist Opportunity

- Winner: £500 cash prize, professional photography, and a 12-month public exhibition

- Runners-up (x2): £250 cash prizes, large-scale exhibition on additional town centre sites

- Deadline: 5pm, Monday 30th June 2025

- How to Apply: Email your entry to [email protected], including:
  - - Your full name, date of birth, home address, school/college (if applicable)
  - - A short description (up to 100 words) about your artwork and its meaning