Brian Lewis, who founded Art Circus in 1980, a community publisher and arts organization in West Yorkshire, passed away at 88.
Based in a converted school in Glasshoughton, he coordinated until 1997, encouraging locals to share experiences through books like 'The Bus to Barnsley Market' by Ian Clayton and 'Chapati and Chips' by Almas Khan.
Art Circus produced scores of publications, often experimentally, such as 'The Bumper Book of Beanos' assembled in one day at Scarborough library.
Lewis was an accomplished artist focusing on trade union themes, exhibiting widely with works in international collections.
He authored poetry books like 'The Waters of' and novels 'The Sexy Bits of Lady C.' As Birmingham's first poet laureate (1996-1997), he raised poetry's profile through workshops.
Born in Smethwick to Ernest and Ada, he apprenticed in a foundry, did national service, trained as a teacher, and taught English before establishing Art Circus.
After, he founded Pontefract Press and worked on art-economic development books.
Divorced from Jean Barker in 1982, he married Reini Schuhle in 1983.
Survived by Reini, six children, six grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter.
The obituary highlights his contributions to community arts, literature, and education, emphasizing his legacy in empowering ordinary voices.
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