What’s happening?
Next week, Robyn Murrell is hosting Painting for Parkinson’s, a free event that “will bring those affected by Parkinson’s disease together with friends, family, neighbours and the community to share a fun, enriching and stimulating experience,” notes a press release.
Why Parkinson’s?
Murrell is an avid volunteer, and she spends much of her time volunteering with people with Parkinson’s disease. She and her sister Heidi Clarkson lead a 12-week walking program for people with Parkinson’s called Step by Step New West, run by the Parkinson Society British Columbia.
“Some people with the disease ‘hide’ out at home so we hope to encourage the participants to feel active and part of the community. Participants will also meet others affected with PD and hopefully make connections and friendships,” reads the release.
So what will participants be doing?
Why they’ll be painting, of course! With help from artist Iris Mes-Low, participants will reproduce her piece Tulipson a 12 inch-by-12 inch canvas. And they’ll get to take their work home after the event. (Did you know the tulip has been the worldwide symbol of Parkinson’s disease since April 2005?)
Is it only for people with Parkinson’s disease?
No. Family members, friends, neighbours and significant others are welcome to join. Painting is limited to 40 people – preferably for those with Parkinson’s – but if there are spots left, others are welcome to take part, according to the release.
What else?
There will be a light snack provided courtesy of Wayne Corlett, owner of the Tim Hortons at Plaza 88. Murrell also wanted to thank 100 Braid Street Studios for providing the space; Iris Mes-Low Art for creating the tulip painting; Opus Coquitlam for donating the 40 canvases; and Vancouver Foundation, New Westminster Neighbourhood Small Grants and Family Services of Greater Vancouver for the grant.
Details, please.
Painting for Parkinson’s is from 12:30 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 15 at 100 Braid St Studios, 200-100 Braid St. The event is completely free (as mentioned above); you just have to register for a spot. Go to tinyurl.com/paintingparkinsons to sign up.
