A Harrogate charity is “in the frame” for a cash boost – after gaining support from an internationally-acclaimed artist whose latest work is being showcased in the town.
John Lowrie Morrison OBE – whose sought-after paintings hang in the homes of celebrities such as Madonna and Sting – is donating a percentage of proceeds from his current exhibition at Walker Galleries to the Carers’ Resource.
Members of the Royal Family to have bought his paintings reputedly include the Queen – leading to a BBC documentary about his life, entitled ‘The Man With The Golden Brush’.
Known as Jolomo and recently dubbed “Scotland’s most successful artist”, he is a carer himself and has a first-hand insight into the stresses and strains that can face people who look after loved ones on a daily basis.
He has long been a staunch supporter of charities that support the growing number of unpaid carers – his generosity being recognised in the Queen’s 2011 New Year Honours.
Since being introduced to the work of the local charity two years ago Jolomo has stayed in touch and continues to back the work of the Carers’ Resource, based in North Park Road with a sister office in Allhallowgate in Ripon.
Anne Smyth, founding Director of the Carers’ Resource, said:
His continued contribution to our work is appreciated and will be well used as we expand the support we offer Yorkshire’s carers and launch new initiatives to meet their changing needs.
Unfortunately, many carers do not recognise themselves as carers and need help themselves the many conflicting roles they juggle with, often a great personal, emotional and personal cost.
We thank him for once again taking the time to visit Harrogate and to take an interest in our work, and to find out more about the ways in which we make every penny go as far as possible in helping people from all across our community.
Entitled “The Light of Argyll and The Isles”, his latest exhibition features at Walker Galleries until 29 September 2012.
