John’s exhibition is inspired after sad loss of loved ones

John’s exhibition is inspired after sad loss of loved ones

13 May 2015

JOHN Doherty has ironically experienced some of his most prolific months as an artist since suffering two devastating bereavements.

Saddened by the death of his grandmother from cancer in February, he was then stunned by the death of his 52 year-old father at the end of March, just seven weeks after he too had been diagnosed with the illness.

Having also lost his 54 year-old aunt and paternal grandmother to the disease over the past few years, John says the series of bereavements have dramatically changed his outlook on life.

Acutely feeling the importance of every day, he admits he has struggled with the life-changing loss and has channelled much of his grief into his artwork, carving and chiselling wood into unique wall pieces.

He has now decided that the fruits of his labour will be auctioned this summer in a fundraising event for Marie Cure Cancer Care in the St. Patrick Centre that John hopes will make a difference to other people affected by the disease.

John will exhibit his work at the centre throughout the month of July with the auction scheduled to take place on July 24 at 7pm with entertainment and refreshments beforehand.

He said he feels driven to do something for charity because of his own family’s experience and is hoping to encourage other businesses on board to donate to the auction, which will be held at the St Patrick Centre in July.

As well as encouraging artists to donate a piece of work to the auction, he is also asking restaurants, cafes and shops to consider donating vouchers or gift items to help him ensure the auction is as varied as possible.

“My dad died so suddenly, just weeks after finding out he had lung cancer, and that has been a huge shock,” he said.

“Just weeks before that I had visited my grandmother in England who also died very suddenly after I left. It has really changed how I look at things.

“Cancer affects too many people, too many families, even children and young adults. It is an awful disease that made my dad really suffer.

“I have always tinkered with art and enjoyed taking things apart and creating something new.

“I work from a shed in my garden after receiving a grant from the Prince’s Trust to help me buy the main tools I need and in recent weeks I have worked more than ever.

“I have been working things out by doing woodwork. That has helped me control my emotions and hopefully the artwork I have created will in turn raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care.”

For more information about the forthcoming auction or to donate an item please contact John by email johndoherty1987.jd@gmail.com