Artist liberates her strokes for charity

10:30pm Friday 10th October 2008

Comments (0)   Have your say »

A BUCKS-based artist has picked up her brush to paint to the theme of liberation in aid of a charity's annual fundraising exhibition.

Ali Cockrean, an expressionist painter, decided to support Sue Ryder Care through its Art Liberating Lives project, in memory of a friend who died of a tumour aged 45.

The charity, which has a hospice in Henley, provides palliative and home care to people living with serious illnesses and conditions such as cancer, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and dementia.

Ali, 46, whose studio is based in Longwick near Princes Risborough, said: "Two years ago my close friend, Charles Haslam died of a brain tumour. He was a huge supporter and believer in my work and a truly positive and enriching influence on my life, his loss hit me very hard.

"I have chosen to take part in Art Liberating Lives because I can relate very closely to the theme of liberation, both in the sense of relief - when Charles died he was released from his suffering, which was considerable - and freedom, which I experience by expressing my feelings through art."

Ali's painting for the project will be displayed at an exhibition in London in December, along with pieces from the charity's patients.

Art is often used as a therapy tool for patients to help them express themselves in a way their condition may make difficult.

It also increases interaction and conversation between sufferers and can aid their mobility and co-ordination.

The charity is urging others to get involved with the event, now in its fourth year, and anyone is welcome to create pieces of art in any medium, which could be picked to appear among Ali's work.

Victoria Glover, head of events at Sue Ryder Care, said: “Last year we had a wonderful array of artwork including paintings, drawings, collages and sculptures, and we are hoping that many more people will take part this year to express what they feel Liberation stands for in their life."

The charity is hoping to raise £50,000 through the exhibition by picking up 45 per cent of the sale price of any pieces, with the remaining costs going to the artists.

This year a new Young Artist category has been created for anyone in full-time education, the winner of which will scoop £1,000 to spend on art supplies.

Entries can be submitted through the charity's website, which you can visit using the link, above right. The closing date for entries is Monday, October 20th.

For more information about how you can get involved in Art Liberating Lives call 01491 641070.