Barnes Artists are launching the first independent Open Studios event since local contemporary artist Bruce McLean held a Barnes Biennale in 2005. On Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June, nearly 40 local artists offer a diverse collection of paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, sketches, sculpture, stained glass, performance art and demonstrations in 17 locations, all around the theme ‘From the Garden’. The free event is held in association with FiSH Open Gardens on Sunday 31st May 2026.

Sculptor Derek Pearce will be exhibiting thought-provoking, climate change themed work at the Vine Road Pavilion. We asked him about his views on nature conservation, climate change and art – here is what he said.

“As a designer I have always been interested in building techniques, interiors and furniture.
20 years ago I did a lot of research into Eco building and realised there was a big problem with the climate and it was not getting any better. We now live in our self- built Eco house in Barnes. We have a Heat Pump, a Rainwater Harvesting Tank which supplies the loo, the house is made from SIPS panels and built on Screw Piles. We have Heat Recovery Ventilation and Underfloor Heating when needed.”

“We have lived in the house for 10 years and over that time I have become more and more concerned about the climate and this is reflected in my work. Some of the pieces are ironic and some thought provoking and some have a sense of humour (I hope). There is one optimistic piece about the Nene Goose, the State Bird of Hawaii, saved from extinction by Sir Peter Scott, the founder of WWT.”

“I am very happy to be showing my work as part of Barnes Artists Open Studios, in the Pavilion at Vine Road Recreation Ground on 6-7th of June, normally the offices of Barnes Common Limited who are doing great conservation work on Barnes Common and ‘Leg o Mutton’ Reservoir.”

“I also have a Climate album on Spotify called We’re in a Jam (Wot’s the Plan?)”