The family of a well-known and beloved artist who died in a crash in the centre of a town in Cornwall have paid tribute to his “truly wonderful life”. Local legend Arthur Orum, 77, died after colliding with a car in St Ives on Saturday night (December 30).
Arthur, who was originally from America but lived locally, was confirmed deceased at the scene at Tregenna Place shortly before 9pm. His next of kin have been informed.
His family have today (Wednesday, January 3) said: “Arthur Orum died on December 30, 2023. He will be remembered by his many friends and family for his wonderful sense of humour, his love of nature and long walks, his devotion to his family and his incredible artistic talent.
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“Arthur grew up on a lake in Pewaukee Wisconsin in the American Midwest. It was there that he grew to love the water. On his first visit to St Ives, over 40 years ago, he was captivated by the sea and the surrounding beauty of Cornwall.
“St Ives became the place he loved the most and where he was the happiest. He enjoyed a truly wonderful life painting, salsa dancing, playing the piano at the Kettle & Wink, and using his bus pass, which he thought was the most brilliant invention.
“Arthur’s beautiful art will live on and remind us all of how special, loving and creative he was in life. He will be missed by his many friends, his two brothers and his many nieces and nephews.
“A celebration of Arthur’s life will be held in St Ives in the near future.”
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A woman aged 29 from the town was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and has since been released under investigation pending further enquiries, said Devon and Cornwall Police. Despite the efforts of the emergency services personnel, Arthur could not be saved.
As word of the tragedy spread throughout St Ives and beyond, tributes started to be paid online. Friends and family have shared their heartbreak on social media.
His nephew Nick Orum shared: “Uncle Arthur, I cannot believe you are gone. We will so miss your great humour, wondrous creativity, and unique way of looking at the world. I’m so very glad we got to see you again a few years ago. This is all too sad. The world is a little less magical now.”
Desiree Hope shared an image of his most recent work and wrote: “Our dear friend Arthur died yesterday. This was his last painting… We will miss you Arthur Orum. Fly free.”
Christopher Barnes wrote: “Very sad news. My friend Arthur Orum has passed away. To all my friends that knew him.” Natalie J Pearce: “RIP Arthur… I am sure that you are having a right laugh reunited with my daddy. I will treasure the videos even more now that he posted… You were both as crazy as each other together in them but in such a lovely way.”
John Tremelling: “Oh not you old friend. I am so very sorry to hear the sad news. Rest in Peace Arthur I will miss our talks.” And Mary Fletcher said: “What a shock – Friday I had an hour-long conversation with him in the Pool Club. He kept making jokes as ever – also deplored the bombing of Gaza.”
Jerome Wallington: “I still can’t believe my true friend Arthur is gone. I loved our chats about art and life. St Ives won’t be the same without him. I have several of his paintings, an inspiration to me. Broken hearted. My next painting will be dedicated to you my friend. Love you Arthur.”
Alex Maddern: “Rest in peace Arthur. Your work is much loved.” Tanya Askew-Spinks: “Such sad news. Arthur always made me chuckle when we were dancing.”
Tina Bryan: “I’m so sad to read this. Danced with Arthur at dance classes. Sending love to all who knew him.”
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Faye Fryer: “I was so shocked and upset to see a post on New Year’s Eve. He was such a lovely guy to chat to. Sadly in latter years with me not dancing, I’d not really seen him but do remember dancing together at your classes. Also used to admire his artwork he posted on FB, loved the more realistic ones the best, especially the way he daubed the paint to do the flowers. A very sad end to 2023 for his close friends and loved ones.”
Kym Haylett: “Absolutely devastating. Was in complete shock at the news. I only saw him in town on the 26th. He was a true gentleman.”
Tony Smitheram: “My friend of 34 years, when I worked at WH Lane and Sons, art auctions. I really liked Arthur, saw him in the autumn, and we were discussing art and health, so sad.” Denise Hempsall: “Awww so sad, rest in peace dear Arthur.”
Carole Ann Powell: “He was well known here in St Ives and will be missed by many.” Rozzi Wright: “Arthur, I am so very sad to hear that you have passed away. You were as colourful as your pictures! I hope you rest in the peace you searched for here!! Such sadness!!”
Jo Grant: “God bless Arthur. He was a talented artist and lovely, quiet man. We will miss him greatly. God bless you Arthur. Fly high and be happy dear man.” Stephen McGriff: “Aww dear Arthur Orum. Such a kind soul. A much loved local.”
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Jane Gray: “I’m heartbroken. R.I.P. dear Arthur, paint the sky bright for us.” Sara Ross: “Oh no poor Arthur that’s awful news. He was such a gentle soul.”
Flora Daisy: “Shocked to hear this news. Met this wonderful man a few months back and had a great chat with him. He was a pretty straight talker and I loved that about him and imagined we would have more chats . Can’t believe that’s no longer possible. His last painting is wonderful. Fly free Arthur I will remember you because your hard to forget.”
Police are appealing for any witnesses who have not yet made themselves known, to get in touch on 101 or via the force website, quoting log 773 of 30/12/23.
