‘It’s Changed My Life Around’: Artmakers’ Pride Seeing His Artwork Featured Alongside Famous Artists

An artmaker at local charity Henshaws says he feels ‘happy and proud’ to have his work selling alongside pieces by famous artists in a unique anonymous art sale.

Oliver Fawcett, who has anxiety, dyspraxia, dyslexia and speech and language difficulties, is one of several people supported by the sight loss and disability charity Henshaws whose artwork has been featured in the Art Anonymous sale.

The art sale, organised by Henshaws, includes donated pieces by well-known artists as well as work created by those who attend the charity’s Arts and Crafts Centre in Knaresborough, known as artmakers.

Oliver, from Yorkshire, began attending the Arts and Crafts Centre in 2017 and says it has changed his life.

The 40-year-old artmaker said: “It’s an amazing place, it changed my life around this place.”

Oliver, who has worked on several collaborative projects across the workshops run at the centre as well as the Art Anonymous sale, added: “I do woodwork all the time, I love it here, I love the people.”

Reflecting on how he feels when someone buys his art, he said: “Happy and proud.”

Art Anonymous is live online now after launching earlier this month, and all pieces, including those donated by renowned artists are priced at £100 with money raised going to Henshaws. 

Those who buy pieces from the anonymous sale will be none the wiser as to whether they’re purchasing a piece by a professional artist, or a work created by a Henshaw’s artmaker – with the artist’s identity not revealed until after purchase.

The inclusive art sale aims to highlight that regardless of physical ability, everyone has the potential to create beautiful and meaningful artwork. It is also a unique opportunity for collectors, with works by artists including Ann Shrager and Heather Burton available to purchase.

Commenting on the impact the Arts and Crafts Centre has on artmakers’ lives, Lisa Hart, head of the centre, said:
“It’s imperative for us that people know there is somewhere for them to come where they are included and can be creative.

“It’s not just about the art here it’s also about the social interaction, making friends and having relationships. It’s very important to have people here and to teach them, but it’s more about having somewhere for people to go and have a sense of belonging.
“We want to include everybody and make sure there is a place for them, and they’re cared for and loved.”

Artist and organizer Sid Hines added:
"Art is for everybody; it does not discriminate by age, colour, creed, religion, or disabilities.

“While some may not see the world with perfect clarity or express themselves verbally, the art created by those with disabilities stands strong alongside the best in this exhibition. Let your sight, heart, and mind decide what art is—not the signature in the corner of the picture."

The artwork featured in Art Anonymous includes a diverse array of media, with most pieces in postcard size. Many of the works are mounted and ready to frame, courtesy of The Whole Picture Company in Harrogate.

The art sale will remain on the Henshaws website until all the artwork is sold. See images of a selection of the artwork and artmakers including Oliver here