#87: The Secret Painter: Joe Tucker and the Nature of Intangible Heritage

" But I kind of loved the power of that, the power of weirdness"

"The Secret Painter" is a memoir by Joe Tucker that delves into the concealed artistic life of his uncle, Eric Tucker. Eric, a laborer from Warrington, Cheshire, led a double life, secretly creating over 500 paintings and approximately 1,000 sketches depicting mid-20th-century working-class northern life. His works, often compared to those of LS Lowry, capture scenes of pubs, theaters, and street life with authenticity and depth.

Despite his sociable nature, Eric was reserved about his art, seldom sharing his creations publicly. His family discovered his extensive collection only after his death in 2018, leading to posthumous exhibitions that garnered significant public and media attention.

Joe Tucker's memoir offers a touching and thoughtful exploration of his uncle's life, reflecting on themes of class, ambition, loneliness, and community. The book provides insight into Eric's personal history, his dedication to art, and the broader disconnect between working-class culture and the art establishment.

"The Secret Painter" serves as a poignant tribute to Eric Tucker's unwavering artistic commitment, bringing his life's work into the public eye and celebrating the extraordinary found in unexpected places.