Who we are
Founder Profile – David Barton BCAa FRSA
David Barton - Founder
"Our wonderful team of volunteers play an essential role in supporting the many charities and community groups we work with.
Their hard work and dedication not only help us meet immediate needs but also pave the way for lasting change. We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each volunteer for their invaluable contributions; your efforts inspire everyone to actively engage and strengthen our communities.
Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone!"
David Barton BCAa FRSA is the founder of Get Started Art and an award-winning community leader dedicated to making creativity accessible to everyone. He established the charity to ensure that disadvantaged children and adults experiencing vulnerability, isolation, or limited resources could benefit from simple, thoughtful art-therapy materials designed to support emotional wellbeing, confidence, and social connection.
Under his leadership, Get Started Art has grown into a widely respected charity with national reach. Its resources are now used by schools, care homes, hospitals, charities, community organisations, and families across the UK, with the charity’s work extending into a growing number of international communities.
In recognition of his sustained contribution to community wellbeing through the creative arts, David has been honoured with a British Citizen Award for Services to the Arts (BCAa). The award forms part of The People’s Honours and recognises individuals who make an exceptional contribution to society through voluntary service and civic commitment, for the good of the country.
David’s contribution to community life and the arts has also been recognised through the Essex High Sheriff’s Award, two Mayoral Roll of Honour awards, and two Honourable Mentions at the Pride of Essex Awards. He has also been granted the Freedom of the City of London, one of the UK’s most historic civic honours.
In recognition of his commitment to creativity as a force for public good, David has been appointed a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA). Founded in 1754, the Royal Society of Arts is one of Britain’s oldest and most influential institutions, dedicated to advancing creativity, education, and social progress through practical action and civic leadership.
Alongside his charitable work, David is an award-winning business owner and was awarded Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (FCILT) in recognition of his professional contribution to the logistics sector.
David’s work continues to focus on strengthening communities, supporting wellbeing through accessible creativity, and building meaningful partnerships across the voluntary, civic, and public sectors.