Sheffield Artist Joe Scarborough
We are delighted that the Sheffield legend that is Joe Scarborough has agreed to be our latest “Fellow Sheffield Creative” and took time out to answer a few of our questions.
Joe is an internationally renowned artist with a reputation for depicting scenes of everyday life in his unique and colourful way, read on to find out just what Joe had to say and view some of his excellent work.
Volta: Who or what inspired you to do what you do?
Joe: As a young man, 60 years ago now, I worked down Thorpe Hesley pit and the contrast between the darkness of the coal face and the vivid colours as I emerged, made me want to capture the difference.
Volta: Were you self-taught or have you had formal training?
Joe: I am self taught. My art teacher at school told me to forget art and get a proper job. I did meet L.S. Lowry but he taught me about tax instead of painting.
Volta: What did you do before you did what you do now?
Joe: I had many jobs including Cinema Doorman, Park Keeper, Miner and a job at Bachelors Peas.
Volta: How did your current style develop and how do you see it developing in the future?
Joe: I wanted to be Sheffield’s premier maritime artist but soon realised no one in Sheffield would buy a picture of a boat so I developed my style out of commercial necessity. At 81 years old, it’s not going to change much now.
Volta: How would you describe what you do?
Joe: I’m a showman, an entertainer, a music hall man. I’m a director of the ensemble cast in my works.
Volta: If you could lay claim to one piece of creative work in any area what would it be and why?
Joe: The stone circle fire place in Storrs Wood created by Andrew “Stoneface” Vickers which allows children’s imagination to soar.
Volta: Can you remember the first piece of work you ever sold?
Joe: No but it would have been a 24”x20”, just the right size for a council house chimney breast for about £5.
Volta: Do other areas of creativity, such as music, have any influence on your work?
Joe: I love all kinds of music, especially classical and have all my choices ready for Desert Island Discs for when the call comes.
Volta: What is your favourite thing about Sheffield?
Joe: Undoubtably it’s wonderful people.
Volta: What advice would you give an aspiring fellow creative who was wanting to break through to the next level?
Joe: If you can compromise, do, if you can’t, don’t.
Sheffield Artist Joe Scarborough
Want to find out a little more about Sheffield Artist Joe Scarborough and his work?
Here are links to Joe’s website and social media channels – enjoy!
