Remember Tim Owen, one of the ‘3 Dad’s Walking’ who recently completed a 300-mile charity walk across the country? Later this month, Art Academy East is holding a creative marathon fundraiser, also in memory of his daughter Emily and also in support of young suicide prevention
Emily Owen was not only a talented artist. She was a valued student of Art Academy East, and her creative works included this rather beautiful portrait of actor Sir Ian McKellen. Her father, Tim Owen, from Shouldham in West Norfolk, recently completed an incredible 300-mile charity walk, as part of ‘3 Dads Walking’. The three fathers, who each lost their daughters to suicide, won hearts across the UK as well as generous donations from actors Daniel Craig and Nicole Kidman as well as Manchester United legend Lou Macari.
On January 25, there will be another fundraiser in memory of Emily and in support of PAPYRUS, the charity committed to the prevention of young suicide, when Art Academy East hosts an all-day hands-on art event at their bright Norwich studio space.
The day is all about having fun and trying something new. From complete beginners to experienced creators, Art Academy East welcomes everyone to a paint-along or a clay throw-down. Ticket holders can even join in with the painting sessions at home, so no-one’s left out. All artists will come away with their own fabulous artwork to take home whilst also supporting a life-saving cause.
Tim says: ‘Emily’s suicide was totally devastating to family, friends and colleagues. She had just no idea how many people’s lives she touched and now continues to impact through events like this. Em was such an amazing and talented artist but would never have believed that her art would be showcased and used to raise life-saving funds for PAPYRUS. So, thank you for supporting Art Academy East’s ‘Art for Life’ event and celebrating Em’s art with us – your support will be saving young people’s lives.’
Claire Frances Smith, Art Academy East Director says: ‘We decided to call our event ‘Art for Life’ as it has double meaning for us; a creative, fun event that promotes a life-saving charity, and also underlines the importance of art in lifelong learning, wellbeing and society. We have been so inspired by the ‘3 Dads Walking’ and wanted to lend our support to help to raise awareness of PAPYRUS and also highlight Emily’s special talent as an artist.’
The day promises an inspiring creative experience, perfect to be enjoyed solo or with friends.
Esther James, Art Academy East Creative Director, comments ‘When a person decides to take their own life, for the family, the discussions held around the circumstances of their death can often overshadow celebrating who the person was, how they lived their life and their achievements. We passionately support charity work around the prevention of suicide and help for bereaved families and we feel strongly about creating an event that showcased Emily’s considerable artistic abilities.’
Ged Flynn, Chief Executive of PAPYRUS, adds: ‘’Art for Life’ is an amazing example of how we can all work together to raise greater awareness of the vital support which is available and help to engage with young people.
‘Events, fundraising, and donations help to pay for potentially life-saving calls, texts and emails to our confidential HOPELINEUK service, which offers support and advice to young people and anyone who is worried about a young person who may be having thoughts of suicide.
‘Your support also helps PAPYRUS to engage with local communities and volunteers in suicide prevention projects and supports the training we deliver to individuals and groups.
‘Together we must continue giving hope to young people who are struggling with life.’
Esther adds: ‘We have had a great take up of the marathon tickets, where people paint and create for the whole day, and we have raised just over £2500 so far.’
The ‘Art for Life’ sessions will run throughout the day from 9.30am-8.30pm on Tuesday January 25 at Art Academy East in Sprowston, Norwich. Everyone who buys a ticket for the online sessions will receive an art pack with all necessary materials to follow the step-by-step guided painting sessions, just as if they were in the studio. Tickets can be booked via the website. Also, visit @3dadswalking on Instagram and Papyrus UK.
Images supplied by Art Academy East
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