Charity art show to support cancer wellbeing hub

An art exhibition featuring independent artists from North Devon is set to raise funds for the Fern Centre, which provides wellbeing support for individuals affected by cancer.

The two-day event, organised by the Community Interest Company ArtMakers, will take place at the Fern Centre at North Devon District Hospital on Saturday, 30 November, and Sunday, 1 December. 

Entry is free, with viewing available from 10am to 4pm on both days.

A portion of the proceeds from art sales will go towards supporting the Fern Centre, which offers free counselling, complementary therapies, and information services to those impacted by cancer. 

The centre opened in 2020 after a £1.5 million fundraising campaign and is funded by the Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, previously known as Over and Above.

Phil Parker, director of ArtMakers, said: “ArtMakers is delighted to be supporting the Fern Centre with this charity art show, which highlights the role creativity plays in health care and expresses our joint concern to support those affected by cancer, in all its forms.”

Fern Centre manager Tara Jones added: “We’re looking forward to being able to showcase some of the best artistic talent in North Devon and can’t thank ArtMakers enough for their super support of the Fern Centre.

“The art show will also provide people with a great opportunity to visit the Fern Centre and find out more about the services we provide and the support we offer North Devon families at a time when they need it most.”

The exhibition aims to raise awareness of the centre’s services while contributing to its ongoing support for local patients and their families.