In a surprising and delightful twist of fate, an ordinary rental apartment in Birkenhead, England, has emerged as a celebrated example of Outsider Art. The former home of the late Ron Gittins, an eccentric artist with limited formal training, has been officially listed as a Grade II protected site by the British government. This recognition comes five years after Gittins’ passing in 2019, uncovering a secret wonderland of art crafted over three decades.
Ron Gittins was a figure of vibrant creativity and mystery in his community, often seen in costume collecting materials for his creations. His artistic endeavors remained primarily hidden until his death when his niece, Jan Williams, and her partner, Chris Teasdale, discovered the extent of his work. “The house was an absolute tip, and you couldn’t even get through the door,” Williams recounted to CNN, revealing the overwhelming collection of art that filled every corner of Gittins’ apartment.
The space, transformed into an elaborate stage of Gittins’ imagination, featured murals of ancient civilizations, sculptural fireplaces, and even a Roman bread oven. Motivated by their astonishing find, Williams and Teasdale initiated a campaign to preserve “Ron’s Place,” leading to its acquisition and the recent protective listing by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, advised by Historic England.
A notable supporter and patron, Jarvis Cocker expressed his enthusiasm for recognizing Gittins’ work. “A small number of people on this planet have known for a while that Ron’s Place is a very Special Place—but from now on, it is official: Ron’s Place has been given listed status!” Cocker announced, celebrating the national and global acknowledgment of Gittins’ unique contributions to art.
As “Ron’s Place” transitions into a micro-museum and a hub for artistic creation, it stands as a poignant reminder of the power of personal vision and the importance of preserving such unique expressions of creativity. The protected status honors Ron Gittins’ legacy and invites future generations to explore and embrace the unconventional. Williams hopes to inspire others with the spirit of her uncle, urging them to “be creative and be resourceful and see the potential in others around and what you could make out of it.” In safeguarding this enclave of creativity, the community not only preserves a remarkable legacy but also perpetuates the vital message that art can thrive beyond traditional confines.
