The Art of Giving: Paul Farries’ Enduring Legacy
A Lavington grandmother, diagnosed with terminal cancer, has left an indelible mark on the lives of sick children and their families on the Border. Paul Farries, a renowned artist, recently completed two major artworks to benefit Country Hope, a charity that supports families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
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Painting Through Adversity
Since her diagnosis, Paul has been in palliative care at Mercy Health in Albury, but her passion for art has sustained her. She has always found solace in her artwork, which dates back to her childhood in England. “It’s really filled my cup,” she said. “I can’t imagine my life without art in it.” Paul’s love for art has been a constant companion throughout her life, and it has now become a source of comfort and strength in her final days.
Artistic Journey
Paul’s artistic journey began when she was just 11 years old, painting in the attic of her family’s English pub. She would spend hours creating art, and her talent was evident from a young age. As a young woman, Paul migrated to Australia with her family under the Ten Pound Poms scheme. She took refuge in her artwork, and her passion for plein air painting only grew stronger.
A Career in the Public Service
Paul’s career in the navy and the public service was marked by discipline and dedication, but she always found time for her art. She would often carry felt pens and art supplies with her, even on her skiing trips. Her love for art was a constant source of inspiration, and it has now become a legacy that will live on long after she is gone.
A Retrospective Exhibition and Sale
In 2023, Paul Farries donated 60 artworks to Country Hope as part of her retrospective exhibition and sale in Wodonga. The exhibition was a huge success, and it raised awareness about the charity’s work in supporting families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Paul’s donation was a testament to her generosity and her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Collaborating with Murray Arts
Paul is now teaming up with Murray Arts to inspire other artists on the Border to follow in her footsteps. The organization is encouraging interested artists to contact them to enter their works into the exhibition. All profits from sales will go to Country Hope, and the event is expected to raise significant funds for the charity.
Paul’s latest artworks are a testament to her enduring legacy. She has created two major paintings, which will be exhibited at the Gateway Gallery during June. The event is a fitting tribute to her life’s work and a reminder of the impact she has had on the lives of others.
Paul Farries’ story is a powerful reminder of the impact that art can have on our lives. Her passion for art has sustained her through adversity, and it has now become a legacy that will live on long after she is gone. As we reflect on her life and legacy, we are reminded of the importance of following our passions and making a difference in the lives of others.
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Paul Farries | Lavington grandmother diagnosed with terminal cancer |
| Artistic Journey | Started painting at 11 years old, migrated to Australia at 12, and has been painting ever since |
| Donation to Country Hope | 60 artworks donated in 2023, with two more major paintings completed recently |
| Exhibition | Gateway Gallery, June, with all profits going to Country Hope |
Call to Action
If you are an artist interested in learning more about the exhibition or contributing to the cause, please contact Murray Arts on (02) 6021 5034 or email director@murrayarts.org.au.
A Message from Paul Farries
“I am grateful for the opportunity to share my art with others and to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. I hope that my legacy will inspire others to follow in my footsteps and to make a positive impact on the world.”
Supporting Country Hope
Country Hope is a charity that supports families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. If you would like to support the charity, please visit their website or donate to their cause.
Remembering Paul Farries
Paul Farries’ legacy will live on through her art, and we will always remember her as a generous and dedicated individual who made a difference in the lives of others. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact that art can have on our lives, and it will continue to inspire others for years to come.