Ruth Beck thought she would never paint again when doctors told her they would have to operate on her thumb due to osteoarthritis. Two years later, the Islington-inspired artist has established herself as a key part of the borough’s art scene, depicting familiar locations and the community’s past.
Deciding that watercolour was more gentle than pencils or acrylic, Beck purchased a set of paints and blotting paper. “Part of the healing process was to pick up my paint brushes once again. I wasn’t even able to sign my name without excruciating pain, and I hadn’t painted for almost two years,” she said.
Her first project was painting from a picture of Highbury Barn – close to her childhood home – which she found online. She posted the watercolour on a Facebook group of borough residents, and the artwork caused a stir: suddenly, she was inundated with hundreds of messages, all sharing stories about their lives in Islington.
“The response was overwhelming,” she said. “I couldn’t believe how many people knew the street, loved the painting, and even wanted it. As an artist, knowing someone wants your art is the biggest compliment.”
The enthusiastic response encouraged Beck to continue, and to date she has painted 56 Islington locations. Her favourite: Scenes of her beloved Gunners’ stadium.
“I love doing both old Highbury Stadium and new Ashburton Grove. A lot of my works are colourised versions of black and white photographs, which are quite popular.”
It’s not just football that inspires her, however. Her childhood in Islington plays a key part in her creative process, whether that’s drawing on memories of an old pie and mash shop or greengrocers at Chapel Market.
“I long for those carefree childhood days, and this really resonates with similar-aged people.
“I have had so many wonderful comments from so many people, recollecting fabulous times and retelling interesting stories.”
Beck’s thumb has now fully healed, and she says that she is eager to paint in much higher volumes throughout the year. Alongside north London scenes, she takes private commissions from people requesting paintings of their childhood homes or favourite places. Scrolling through the comments on her Etsy page – her main online store – the effect on customers is clear.
Whether this is sustainable in the current climate will remain to be seen
“I love this print, it reminds me of home,” reads a comment on a painting of the iconic Hope and Anchor pub.
“I bought this as part of my wife’s Christmas present,” reads another. “She was so happy, she cried.”
Beck is clearly proud of causing this response. Speaking about the community she has created, she stresses she is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to hear other people’s memories of Islington. But which scenes are particularly evocative for her?
“DeMarcos’ Cafe – and their legendary lemon ices – was a favourite of mine.
“I also painted an old Woolworth’s store – my late mother always bought her pick and mix sweets from there, and it held particularly special memories for me.”
Beck uses local history groups on Facebook to discover more about the scenes she paints, and also to find potential customers. Whether this is sustainable as coronavirus continues to affect the arts industry, however, remains uncertain.
“I try to promote my work online, but gaining traction is very difficult. I rely mainly on word of mouth and recommendations, and I feel very lucky.”
“Whether this is sustainable in the current climate will remain to be seen. It won’t stop me painting, or sharing my work. I love it too much.”
To see more of Ruth Beck’s work, follow her on social media here.
