A MAN'S artistic dream is coming true after being inspired by west Dorset's landscape to paint 'beautiful' pieces.

Former teacher David Barber has launched his own exhibition on Bridport after spending his summer of 2021 visiting the west Dorset area and creating oil paintings.

Mr Barber was invited down to Dorset by Bryony Alsop, a storyteller and children's writer from Abbotsbury, after she discovered his work in Cumbria after browsing on her laptop.

She said: "I came across a small but well-known gallery, The Cookhouse in the Lake District.

"I come from a long line of artists and among tens of beautiful pieces, one stood out."

Ms Alsop was so impressed with his amateur work, she bought one of his paintings and contacted Mr Barber directly and invited him to Dorset.

"Finding an amazing artist whose work thrills you is always special," she said.

"We met David and received our painting. We felt it right to invite him to visit us in Dorset in hopes our stunning county would open his eyes to new scenes begging to be captured.

"In 2002 he became a teacher to support his young family and although his career in education was rewarding and successful, his heart remained in drawing and painting."

After teaching for some years Mr Barber left the profession to become a painter full time.

Ms Alsop added: "He put down his chalk and picked up his paint brushes, and with easel under arm he went out into the countryside.

"He tells me the feeling was immense.

"I was fortunate enough to play a very small part in the journey of a followed dream. It's a modern Cinderella story.

"His paintings are now beginning to receive the recognition they so deserve."

Mr Barber has now produced paintings after visiting areas including Abbotsbury, West Bay and Burton Bradstock.

On February 18, Mr Taylor held his first exhibition at The Art Unlimited Gallery on South Street, Bridport.

Mr Barber’s art has reached new heights and he is now selling to collectors in America and Australia while running studio sessions and online courses for budding artists," said Ms Alsop.

"I know he will fast become a renowned artist, but for now, I'm glad my family and our beloved Dorset played a part in his fairytale story.

For more visit: www.davidbarberart.co.uk