Artists Biography
Darren Baker
British born 1976Darren’s talent was recognised soon after leaving college and he was selected for a unique show of UK artists in New York (2000). In the same year he was appointed official artist of The Professional Footballer’s Association.
Darren has received commissions from many blue-chip galleries, companies and leading personalities. He has exhibited widely throughout North America, Japan, Europe and the UK.
The artist’s accolades includes:
Official portrait artist to Her Majesty the Queen, 2011
Official artist to the 2012 Olympic Games
Fine Art Trade Guild Award Winner – Best Artist, 2010
Winner of The Garrick Prize at Christie’s, London
Over the years Darren has produced an impressive portfolio of art which grace many prestigious public and private collections, including 10 Downing Street, The House of Lords, St. James’s Palace and the Bahrain Royal household.
Darren feels he owes his success to the Princes Trust who helped him as a very young artist. Now an ambassador for the Princes Trust, Daren has supported the cause and the work they do helping young people, both by holding art workshops and donating pieces of art for fundraising. One portrait donated in 2011 raised over £25,000 at their main dinner at The Savoy.
Prizes and Awards:
1998 First prize, Bradford Open Art Exhibition
1998 Rossington Award in figurative painting, Cleveland Council
2000 IGA Prize Winner, British Art Show
2000 Zeneca Prize, Holmfirth Art Show
2001 RBSA Newcomer Award/Pastel
2003 Fine Art Trade Guild ‘Best Artist’
2003 Short listed for The Garrick Prize
2004 Short listed for ‘Not the Turner Prize’, London
2005 Winner of The Yorkshire Young Achievers Award