In time, most colours fade to grey.

These, once vibrantly coloured characters, are now imprisoned,

 and are slowly fading to grey.

The Barbican Mural 

by Robert Lenkiewicz:

Created on the wall adjacent to Robert's studio on the Barbican, was completed in July 1972.  

The late artist's notes explain that the 3,000 sq ft work, 

 "concerns itself with metaphysical ideas current in England during the period 1580-1620. These ideas cover the following activities: Philosophy; Alchemy; Cabala; Ceremonial Magic; the symbolic aspects of poetry, music and art; the cult of melancholy, chivalry, and similar allegorical trends."

 This is how it looked in 1972.

Then and Now.

Robert Lenkiewicz 1941-2002 was one of Plymouth favourite artists.He moved here in the 1960s when he was offered a large studio space on the Barbican, where he lived a colourful, bohemian lifestyle.

 He painted this mural on the large gable end of the building adjoining his studio in 1971, (click on the images to take a closer look). The salt, sea air has taken its toll over the years, particularly since his death, and it will shortly disappear for ever.

Take a look at a Gallery of his work here.