Biography

Since 1939

Ivan Baron was born in Yorkshire in 1939 and achieved great success as a hairdresser to the stars in the 60s and 70s, owning his own chain of shops. Although married with one son, the success became empty and turned to boredom, leading to an attempted suicide in 1981. Although the attempt failed, after many days in a coma, it took 80% of his vision and he was given a two-year life expectancy. Ever the fighter and not one to be beaten, unable now to cut hair, the obvious course for Ivan was to become an artist, refusing to allow his 20%, blurred vision to thwart his success.

Although Ivan left his wife following the suicide attempt and all his wealth, he remained close to his son Marshall for the rest of his days and re-married Yasuko Yamada. He became almost reclusive for five years and painted until his fingers were sore. His home transformed in to an artist's paradise, turning any small piece of wood or stone in to something strange and interesting. No table or wardrobe were safe in his presence, all were rearranged and wonderful.
 
Ivan's methods of painting were as unusual as his living arrangements, not being able to use fine brushes and the vision of other artists. Fisheye lenses, fingers and magnifying glasses were his primary tools. His temper was very much that of a true Yorkshire man and the frustration and pains taken over every stroke left those watching in awe. Most of his pictures were of women, the one true love of his life. Though he was accomplished in landscapes and floral painting. Very often the faces became those who were most important to him, his much-loved wife and Mother appearing frequently. Those who annoyed him, as they often did, would be rubbed out repainted and rubbed out again.

Since 1983

Yasuko, now Baron, supported him throughout the pain of beginning again. Making frames for his pictures and standing on the freezing Bayswater Road, selling his early works. But the days on stands soon turned to exhibitions, such as the Mall Gallery, Smith's Gallery, Strickland Gallery and Hammersmith's Lyric Theatre London. He soon became popular in Japan, exhibiting many times in Osaka, the hometown of his wife.

Since 1996

Ivan's work is aesthetically pleasing, graceful and sensuous. Whilst at the same time managing to keep the humour he was so renowned for in life. He was an enthusiastic artist who enjoyed much adoration from the rich and famous. He was uniquely gifted and much loved by both friends and family alike. Although his heart attack took him from us, he is alive and well in our hearts minds and especially in his art.