News / Vince John
Tributes paid to gallery owner and champion of street art
Tributes have been paid to much-loved gallery owner Vince John, who has died after a year-long battle with cancer.
The father of three has been remembered by his family as an “integral supporter of street art” and a friend to many artists and collectors.
Vince was the owner of 1LoveArt in the Clifton Arcade, a gallery specialising in limited edition prints and original works by street, urban and contemporary artists.
Established in 2006, 1LoveArt began as a pop-up gallery and exhibited in locations including Park Street and Stokes Croft.
Vince played a key role in organising the painting of the famous ‘Yellow Face Lady’ mural on Stokes Croft in 2012 as well as overseeing its restoration in 2021.
Vince’s Clifton gallery closed in March while he underwent medical treatment.
His family said it “breaks our hearts” to announce he passed away on the evening of May 20.
Vince’s 1LoveArt gallery sells urban and street art – photo: 1LoveArt
In a statement, they said: “Vince, the founder of 1❤️art, was beloved Father to Josiah, Gracie and Archie, Grandfather to Mila and Kai and the long term partner of Becky Delve, who are all grieving for the loss of the man they all loved so deeply.
“Vince was an integral supporter of street art and a friend to so many artists and collectors.
“His profound passion for art was obvious to all who knew him.
“We would like to honour this in the future and ensure that his legacy lives on.
“Vince was loved so much by so many and he will be sorely missed but he will never be forgotten but rather, will live forever, in our hearts and minds.”
They added that funeral arrangements will be shared in soon and invited people to join them in celebrating the life of the “very special man”.
To donate towards Vince’s funeral costs, visit www.gofundme.com/f/vincent-john
Main photo: Vince John
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