
Credit: Cornwall Mind
Celebrities and famous artists have come together to donate their artwork for an auction to raise funds for mental health charity Cornwall Mind.
Over 100 pieces have artwork have been donated by a host of celebrities including gardener and TV presenter Alan Titchmarsh MBE, comedian Joe Lycett and Eighties singing legends Toyah Wilcox and Kim Wilde.
The art auction, sponsored by the Falmouth gallery owner and artist John Dyer, has the theme of ‘What comes to Mind when you think of Cornwall?’ and has sparked the inspiration for a wide range of unique creations.
John Dyer said: “I jumped at the idea to support this as there is such a huge need for more mental health support in Cornwall. The pandemic has created not only a physical health emergency but a mental health crisis too. Cornwall Mind is literally a lifeline for people, and I have seen many people I know and love benefit from mental health support.”
There is also a host of popular artists supporting the auction, including sculptor Tim Shaw, and artists Philip Lyons, Anthony Frost, Gary Long and Emma McClure.
The online auction is live until April 25 and will raise funds for the vital work that Cornwall Mind does in supporting those in the county who are struggling with their mental health.
Bidders could walk away with Kim Wilde’s ‘Catching Waves’ painting of a family surfing holiday, while Doc Martin actress Katherine Parkinson has produced two portraits of the Duchess of Cornwall.
Katherine, who also starred in the TV series The IT Crowd, was the inspiration behind the auction. She said: “I love Cornwall and am so proud to have Cornish DNA and know that art has a valuable role in mental health.”
Paul Reeve, Cornwall Mind’s CEO concluded: “The art auction for Cornwall Mind is a fantastic opportunity to challenge the stigma of mental illness and raise the profile of Cornwall and Cornwall Mind.
“We have been very lucky to have the support of some very generous and talented people from the artistic community and from people who have a public profile in other areas. So, dig deep and make your walls and someone else’s world a brighter place.”
If you would the chance to own a unique piece of art, visit the Cornwall Mind website to place your bid.