Conrad Atkinson (1940–2022) was a British conceptual artist, activist and educator who explored labor, class, war, human rights and social inequality. Born in the mining community of Cleator Moor, England, he studied at Carlisle College of Art, Liverpool College of Art and the Royal Academy Schools in London, completing his studies in 1965. Working across painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture and installation, Atkinson combined found imagery, text and everyday materials to challenge political authority and expose social injustice. His early exhibitions at London's Institute of Contemporary Arts, including Strike (1972) and Work, Wages and Prices (1974), established his reputation as an influential figure in socially engaged conceptual art. Atkinson joined the UC Davis faculty in 1992, serving as professor and department chair before retiring in 2003. His work is held in major collections including Tate, the British Museum, Museum of Modern Art and National Portrait Gallery in London.