A Lavington grandmother, diagnosed with terminal cancer, has used her passion for art to create two major artworks to raise money for Country Hope families on the Border. The artworks, part of a larger collection of 18 paintings, will be sold to benefit the charity, which supports families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
Paul Farries, a grandmother of three, has been painting since she was a young child, finding solace in the creative outlet that has sustained her throughout her life. Her love for art has taken her on a journey from England to Australia, where she has built a successful career and family.
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From England to Australia, a New Home for Art
- Paul’s passion for art began when she was a young girl growing up in England.
- She would paint in the attic of her family’s pub in Tetbury since the age of about 11.
- Within a year, she had migrated to Australia with her family under the Ten Pound Poms scheme.
- She settled in Adelaide and later moved to Penola, South Australia, where she found refuge in her artwork.
After a career in the navy and the public service, Paul settled in Bright to raise her young family. As a grandmother, her passion for plein air painting has permeated her whole life.
A Grandmother’s Legacy
Paul’s artwork has not only brought her joy but also inspired others to follow in her footsteps. Her 2023 retrospective exhibition and sale in Wodonga raised awareness and funds for Country Hope.
Now, Paul wants to inspire other artists on the Border to contribute to the charity’s cause. She is teaming up with Murray Arts to host an exhibition at Gateway Gallery during June.
A Call to Action
Interested artists are encouraged to contact Murray Arts to enter their works into the exhibition. The first time Paul met the team, she was amazed at the diversity and vibrancy of her art.
“So many people don’t know about the extraordinary creatives we have living on the Border; Paul has travelled all over the world to create art,” said Lauren Black, executive director of Murray Arts.
All profits from sales will go to Country Hope, supporting families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
Artists interested in learning more or contributing to the exhibition can contact Murray Arts on (02) 6021 5034 or email director@murrayarts.org.au
Paul’s Words
“It’s really filled my cup,” said Paul Farries. “I can’t imagine my life without art in it.”
“I didn’t want to come to Australia because I was only 12 and the rest of my family were in England,” she added.
“My friend would go downhill skiing and I’d go cross-country skiing at Mount Hotham; I’d carry felt pens and art supplies in my clothes,” she said.
Country Hope and Its Mission
| Country Hope | Supported by |
|---|---|
| Country Hope | Families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses |
Country Hope is a charity that provides support to families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.