A Letter in Mind

Every year I participate in some fundraising exhibitions – it’s a great way of supporting organisations and issues close to your heart. This year I have made work for Nottinghamshire Wildlife, Explorers Against Extinction, Artists for the NHS and A Letter in Mind. The latter is run by The National Brain Appeal that raises money for The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and has been running for 7 years. I have supported this fundraiser since a friend of mine received some amazing treatment from them. They have a different theme every year and this year it was ‘Everyday Things’ – they suggested it could be the daily ritual of a walk, a favourite mug or a much-loved bag. However predictable and routine these things are it is whilst doing them or using them that we take time to reflect and take stock. I spend a lot of my time outside and like a lot of people during lockdown I felt a reconnection with the natural world. This is the artwork I submitted, called ‘The Swing’ and just looking at in makes me feel relaxed. Each artwork is sold anonymously for £85 and all the money goes to the charity. Each year well known creatives also submit work and part of the fun is trying to see if you can spot any work by anyone famous – I mean, who wouldn’t want, for example, a Grayson Perry original for £85! Anyone can submit work so if you fancy it look out for the call next year and have a go! You could be exhibited alongside Anthony Gormley or Mark Dion (a personal favourite).  If you’re feeling charitable there are still some great artworks available – hop over and have a look https://www.nationalbrainappeal.org/product-category/artwork-shop/