The Rosemary Barrow Trail has been created to celebrate and honour my mother, Rosemary, and her deep connection to the town she painted for over three decades.
From the late 1980s until her death in 2019, Mum was a familiar and much-loved local figure, often seen painting out on the streets in all weathers. She worked first in oils and later in watercolour, always painting directly from life, carrying her wicker basket and painting stool. She was drawn to the beauty of the town’s architecture, returning to the same buildings again and again to capture them in changing light and seasons.
Without the use of digital photography, her work became a lasting record of the town, documenting its character and development over three decades. Although she painted locally, she also travelled by bus to other favourite North Devon locations including Ilfracombe, Bideford and South Molton. She spent many hours sketching life in Barnstaple Pannier Market and remained deeply connected to the area, having been born in Goodleigh.
Mum painted right up until the day before she died, a reflection of her dedication and love for what she did.
After her death in 2019, and during the Covid pandemic, I felt there was an opportunity to celebrate her work and give her the recognition she deserved. At a time when towns felt quieter and more fragile, I hoped her artwork could help reconnect people with place and bring them back into the town she loved.
Although the idea began during Covid, it has taken until now to bring the trail to life. Today, as high streets continue to face challenges, the trail feels just as relevant, using art to encourage people to explore, reconnect and support the town centre.
With support from the local council, the trail includes large flags and canvases displayed within Barnstaple Pannier Market, alongside a long panoramic piece.
As part of the project, I have also created colouring sheets for both children and adults, encouraging others to slow down, look closely and explore their own creativity.
Working on the trail has also inspired me to return to painting myself, reconnecting with Mum’s way of seeing the world.
This trail follows in her footsteps. It is an invitation to slow down, look more closely and rediscover the town through her eyes.
