Art Everywhere: Ruth Breen Brightens Community Spaces with Colorful Creations

Ruth Breen is a talented artist who believes that art should be accessible to everyone, not just those who visit museums. As a member of the Visual Artists Association, Ruth has made it her mission to bring her vibrant paintings to everyday spaces. Her work has traveled from a Spanish school to a tower block in Bangladesh, and now she is displaying her colorful pieces at the BBC Radio Stoke offices. Ruth has also exhibited her art outside Biddulph Town Hall and at the Youth & Community Zone, making sure that people from all walks of life can enjoy her creations. She says, 'Not everybody can get to an art museum. By bringing my art to places where people spend their time, I can reach those who might never see it otherwise. ' Ruth began painting during the lockdown, inspired by the nature she saw on her daily walks. Five years later, her dedication has earned her a spot on the longlist for the Visual Artists Association's artist of the year, thanks to her participation in the Global Art Trail.

Ruth's art has had a positive impact on the people who encounter it. Kayce Jackson, who saw Ruth's paintings at her local community cafe, said she felt inspired to start painting herself. At one of Ruth's exhibitions outside Biddulph Town Hall, members of the public were curious and supportive, asking questions and showing genuine interest. Ruth was touched by their encouragement, saying, 'I can't believe how supportive they've been. ' For Ruth, making art accessible became even more meaningful when she brought her paintings, along with some created by her late sister, into her mother's care home. Her 91-year-old mother enjoyed talking about the art and reminiscing about Ruth and her sister as children. Ruth believes that sharing art with people who can't easily visit galleries is important, saying, 'That's what it's all about, isn't it? Bringing art to people who perhaps can't get out or get to an art gallery? '

The exhibition at Biddulph Youth & Community Zone was another opportunity for people to experience Ruth's work. In the dance studio, visitors admired the large, brightly colored paintings of flowers. Some said the event was a wonderful way to bring the community together. One visitor commented, 'I'm not much into art, but I can appreciate it. I wish I could paint and stuff like that, I really do. ' The exhibition also encouraged other artists to reconnect with their passion. Lucy Collier, an experienced artist, said, 'It would influence me to start up again. I love art and always have and did it at uni. ' Ruth hopes to inspire even more people by displaying her canvases at the BBC Radio Stoke studio in Hanley on October 30th. Her efforts show that art can be a powerful way to connect people, spark memories, and encourage creativity, no matter where it is displayed.