Appreciation & Inspiration: Tish Murtha
The first in a new series
The first in a new series of posts, in which we share some people who have inspired us, and whose work we appreciate. They may be of the now, of the past, of video, audio, photography or words. But they all have one thing in common: their work has moved us, taught us, and inspired our work. And for that we thank them.
All images below are © Ella Murtha.
I think it started with that image above.
I think that was the first of Tish’s photos I ever saw. I was drawn into its humanity. Its beautiful innocence. A moment in time between two children that will never be repeated again.
Then looking into it, we found the beautiful legacy of Tish Murtha.
“She was committed to the Working Class struggle, which is continuous and never ending”
Tish was from Elswick in the west end of Newcastle - and from a very working class family. She found her first camera in a derelict building, and it was with that camera that most of her images were captured.
She spent time with the people who she lived amongst during the late 70s and early 80s. She was at one with them - not observing them, but being of them. Feeling them. Understanding them. Knowing their codes, their rituals, their spoken and behaved languages.
Her pictures capture stark contrasts. Contrasts between the past and the future, as Elswick was being modernised. Contrasts between generations past and the future generations, trying to adapt to the times and trying to adapt to each other. Contrasts between the haves and the have-nots.
Her pictures remind us that even in dark times, in dark places, beauty can shine through.
Her pictures show us the indefatigable efforts of children - regardless of their situation or ‘their lot’ - to explore, experiment, have fun, connect, take risks and… to just live. To embrace the beauty and opportunity of life itself!
Tish passed away in 2013, at the age of only 56. Since then her daughter Ella has been ensuring her mam’s legacy is not forgotten.
Most recently this has taken the shape of an amazing documentary.
‘Tish’ is being shown on BBC Four on Monday 1st April and Monday 8th April. Hopefully it’ll be on iPlayer too.
To Tish, we say thank you.