Robert (Bob) Littleford (b.1945)

Born in Oldham in 1945, Robert Littleford is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a member of the British Watercolour Society. Littleford’s origins were not those normally expected of artists who achieve such acclaim. Born of parents who were both poorly paid cotton workers, it was not until he was in his mid 20’s that Bob became aware of the talent that lay dormant inside him. It was a chance glance in a gallery window that inspired his immediate and lifelong ambition, and what a journey it has been.

His paintings, with such deep and tender emotions, cannot help but bring a rush of joy to anyone that sets eyes upon them, these every day scenes of family life whether it’s a day at the seaside, a party, or just catching up with the jobs around the house, his paintings make us remember these things with love. Only a man with a disregard for all that is commercial could portray these feelings in such a way, and transport us back to sweet memories of the past. Exhibitions-Royal Academy Summer Exhibition – 1973 British Watercolour Society Salford Municipal Art Gallery (home of L.S. Lowry), featured by the BBC Royal Society of Arts Oldham Gallery Various galleries and exhibitions throughout the United Kingdom.

In the 1990’s Bob suffered ill-health, having to have a kidney removed, which halted the advancement of his work for nearly 2 years. This came as a real blow not only for Bob but the entire family. Bob was not to give in to this or any other set-backs, at first working just a few hours at a time, slowly building him-self up, until once more he was working every day. This Northern determination has not gone unrewarded, as now his work is much sought after, all over the U.K., and is often sold before he has finished painting. Robert (Bob) Littleford is also listed in the book of ARTISTS IN BRITAIN SINCE 1945 by David Buckman.