A keen artist is selling more than 60 pieces of original artwork to raise funds for the Pear Tree Fund and thank the charity for the support it provided following the loss of her husband.
Valerie England, 83, completed a 10-week art course at the Pear Tree Centre in Halesworth, which is run by the Pear Tree Fund, to help her cope with grief after losing her husband Richard three years ago.
The course ignited a flame of creativity in Valerie, who has since gone onto produce a huge range of artwork which she showcases through her Instagram page at art_by_g_80
Valerie (pictured below) is now planning to hold a sale of her work in her garden, where some of the artwork will be hung from trees. She will donate 50% of all proceeds to the Pear Tree Fund.
“I’ve been visiting the Pear Tree Centre for the past year and it is really wonderful,” said Valerie, who completed a BA in the history of art and American studies aged 56. “After losing my husband I found I was missing company and felt low. The centre has filled this void and ignited my passion for art once again. I’m so incredibly grateful for this beautiful space here in Halesworth. It’s more than a place – it’s a lifeline.”
Beth Yates, fundraising officer with the Pear Tree Fund, said: “We have been incredibly impressed with Valerie’s beautiful artwork and would like to say a big thank you to her for her generosity.”
The art sale takes place on Sunday 14 June between 12noon and 4pm at Ingle Nook, Norwich Road, Halesworth, IP19 8QQ. Everyone is welcome.