Michael Barnard

Wednesday, 02 March 2005

Local artist and historian Michael Barnard

Michael Barnard has been a good friend of the Society over a period of more years than I am prepared to mention.  His distinctive drawings and paintings have brightened and enlivened the pages of many of the Society's publications (as well as of his own).  Michael is also a regular contributor to the local papers that cover the Vale.

You will find Michael's craft all over this website, particularly his "Brother William" drawings derived from the "Brother Willie" sculpture in the Abbey Room at the Almonry Heritage Centre.       

And over to Michael ...

What was your first job?
"I've always been a market gardener.  I started with my father".

What is your favourite book?
"I always used to enjoy the Biggles books".

What is your favourite TV programme?
"I like all travel programmes and, on the lighter side, 'the Good Life'".

What is your favourite film?
"'The Dam Busters' or any film about the RAF because I had a lot to do with flying in the war".

What is your favourite meal?
"Roast beef and Yorkshire pudding.  I don't like modern food".

What makes you mad?
"Critics in the media and newspapers.  I think they should criticise themselves".

With whom would you like to be marooned on a desert island?
"I'd be more than happy to be marooned with my wife.  The chance would be a fine thing".

What is your best buy?
"Although not actually a buy, I've got some pictures that the cartoonist Giles sent me".

What is your worst buy?
"I don't think I've ever bought anything that I've regretted".

You've won £1,000,000 - what will you do with it?
"I'd give a lot of it to Evesham Community Hospital and, if I had enough left, I'd buy a Spitfire".