Rachel Howey turns to art to combat cancer

Mar 17 2010 by Helen Rae, The Journal

She underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy sessions, during which time she asked her friend and former neighbour, Paul Harvey, who had painted many pictures of Rachel, to help raise money for the cancer charity.

Nationally-renowned artist, Paul, who is a leading member of the Stuckist art movement, agreed and the £500 proceeds of the painting Dreaming (of a world without irony) which featured Rachel was donated to Charley Bear for Cancer Care.

A new painting of Rachel done at a time when she was having treatment was also donated to Ward 35 at the Freeman Hospital in the hope it will inspire others as it hangs on the ward’s day room wall.

“All the staff at the hospital have been amazing and I wanted to give something back,” explained Rachel.

“I also hope that the painting that was done of me at the time in my life when I was having treatment will act as an inspiration to other cancer sufferers.”

Paul, of Whitley Bay, who also lectures in art and design at TyneMet College and is currently studying for a PhD at the University of Northumbria, said: “I know the money that was donated to the cancer charity is not a massive amount, but it is for a very good cause and will be well used.

“Rachel is an inspiration and I am glad I have been able to help her raise money with my painting.”