A hidden gem of Outsider Art, Ron’s Place, located at 8 Silverdale Road in Birkenhead, has been granted Grade II listing by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) on the advice of Historic England.

Concealed for more than 30 years within an unassuming Victorian semi-detached villa, Ron Gittins meticulously crafted a striking visionary environment, which remained a secret until he died in 2019.

From intricate murals depicting historical scenes to hand-crafted concrete fireplaces in the shape of a roaring lion’s head, a Minotaur’s head (a mythical creature with the body of a man and the head and tail of a bull) and even a Roman bread oven, Gittins’ creative imagination permeated every corner of his rented ground-floor flat.

The result is a compelling, immersive space that reflects Ron’s intense character, combining his imaginative creative abilities and abiding passion for history following a visit to Pompeii as a young man.

Jarvis Cocker, frontman and founder of Pulp, says: “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!

“The work of one unique gentleman in the north of England has been recognised nationally. Globally even. Hallelujah!!”

The listing recognises Ron’s creation as an exemplar of large-scale Outsider Art in England, a creative phenomenon by artists motivated by their personal visions and often working compulsively, usually with no formal training and outside the influence of the mainstream art world.

Sarah Charlesworth, Listing Team Leader North, adds: “Ron’s Place is testament to the unique artistic achievements and vision of Ron Gittins over four decades.

“Ron’s creations have inspired action from people in the local area to raise funds to purchase the building and secure the survival of his legacy.”

Ron Gittins (1939 to 2019)

The ground-floor flat on Silverdale Road was rented by Ron in 1986, and he spent the next three decades creating a visionary environment.

With limited formal artistic training, he developed his own very particular world, articulated through his flat and the creation of historic costumes.

He would often wear his costumes when out in the local area, but he kept the creations within his home for his own appreciation, with visitors largely discouraged. Together, these aspects sum up both Ron’s flamboyantly engaging and deeply private sides.

Jan Williams, Ron’s Niece and Wirral Arts & Culture Community Land Trust Chair, adds: “I believe Ron would be made up and very proud at all the attention he’s receiving, and thrilled his work is being recognised and appreciated. He only kept it secret because you’re not really supposed to turn your rented flat into a Roman villa complete with epic concrete fireplaces, are you?

“When I was sorting through Ron’s possessions following his death, I discovered an incorrectly addressed postcard he’d tried to send me. He said he couldn’t wait to show me what he’d been working on next time I was home.

“I feel sad to have missed out on so much of my Uncle Ron’s complicated but intriguing story in the past, but it’s good to know his creativity will inspire future generations.”

Images © Historic England

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