Tansley arts pioneer dies

He was described as an ‘inspirational creative man’ having a conscientious, dedicated work ethic and strategic thinking in setting up his various arts groups across the years.

He was set to lead a remarkable life in the arts when at just four-years-old, Peter composed his own piece of piano music under the guidence of legendary accompanist, Frederick Allt.

He set up Action Space London Events in 1980 and First Movement in 1988, enabling people who cannot express themselves in conventional ways enable people to create vibrant original art through various art forms.

Peter’s vision and strategic direction will allow the whole team at First Movement to continue the work he has inspired, to benefit more and more learning-disabled people in the East Midlands, nationally and internationally.

In May 2014 Peter was included in The Independent on Sunday’s ‘Happy List’, acknowledging the huge impact his work had on the happiness of so many.

Fittingly, the editor referred to him on meeting as ‘the indefatigable Peter Shelton’.

In later years Peter developed his own video and sound installations and performance art, exhibiting in the UK, Istanbul and at Sokolowska Festival of Ephemeral Art in Poland.

A celebration of his life will take place at The Level Centre, Rowsley, Derbyshire on Friday 19th September at 4pm. For more info contact Thomas Greatorex and Sons Ltd (01629) 582470.