Concealed for over 30 years within an unassuming Victorian semi-detached house, Ron Gittins’ magical home remained a secret until his death in 2019. Now it’s been granted a Grade II* listing by Historic England, meaning it can be protected and preserved. And not just save, also used.

The intricate murals depicting historical scenes, the hand-crafted concrete fireplace in the shape of a roaring lion’s head, the Minotaur’s head and even a Roman bread oven are all evidence of Gittins' creative imagination. Ron was a self-taught artist, so the art world uses the term ‘Outsider Art’ to describe his work. I’ve never really liked the term as it implies an ‘us’ and ‘them’ in art, and it’s used differently in other contexts – such as to describe neurodivergent artists or creative work made in mental health settings. That said, Ron’s work has attracted sufficient attention that Heritage England have recognised and listed it.

That’s not to say the work is over. Far from it. The people running the site want to make positive contribution to the local neighbourhood and cultural network, supporting social cohesion, celebrating a sense of and

creativity. They hope that Ron’s Place can be a springboard to generate new work by amateur and professional contemporary artists, writers, performers and musicians from diverse backgrounds, including those who work in non-traditional and neurodivergent ways.

You can find out more about the project here: https://ronsplace.co.uk/

Images: Historic England