Farewell to Preston's Picasso

David Burrow, also known as Dave The Artist, died in Blackpool Victoria Hospital after suffering from Coronavirus.

The 75 year old from Penwortham had been in declining health for some time. His friends and admirers have spoken of his remarkable talent.

He will be buried on Friday at Hill Road cemetery in Preston.A memorial service and exhibition of his work will be arranged at a later date.

David who had mental health problems and suffered from schizophrenia had shown his talent for art at an early age.

Among those playing tribute to him was art historian and retired curator Steve Sartin who said: “David was a most accomplished artist and when I was teaching him at the Harris Art College, (Preston), all those years ago, I regarded him as the finest draftsman in the whole of his year. It is a tragedy that his life has come to an end like this.“

His friend Lou Booth, who helped him exhibit his work, said: “We travelled together, putting on exhibitions at Lancashire attractions from Samlesbury Hall, The Storey, Lancaster, The Whitaker, Rossendale, to Dave’s all time favourite The Mystery Tea House in Preston.

“I really admired Dave. He inspired me. He was brave. He overcame so much, loneliness and a severe long-term mental health condition, which could over-shadow many of us.”

She continued: “Dave left his extensive collection of art to Preston charity Integrate whose team, were instrumental in supporting his life.”

Rosemary Trustam, former Chief Executive Officer at Integrate, said: “David was our Preston Picasso and his work was different than anything we had seen.”

Artist Norman Long, who painted a portrait of David, described him as: “A sensitive man of childlike wonder and ferocious brushstrokes.” He added: "David lives on through his art as well as in our hearts."

Donations in David’s memory can be made to Integrate. See integratepreston.org.uk for more information about the charity.