Local disabled artist recognised nationally
Local Kumeu mouth painting artist Elodie Cazes has once again been recognised for her artistic talent, with her painting ‘Summer Happiness’ featuring in the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) mid year range of greeting cards, wrapping paper, gift tags, calendars and bookmarks.

Elodie’s painting is currently being sent to households across New Zealand as part of the range, which allows customers to purchase the products by selecting their favourite designs.

Elodie feels honoured to have her painting selected for the 2006 mid year range.

“For this painting, I was inspired by the beautiful flowers and butterflies behind my house.

“I really enjoy reproducing natural sceneries such as flowers and landscapes. For my future painting, I will be working on some South Island landscapes and a park in Christchurch. I went to Christchurch two years ago and found it beautiful, more European-like,” said Elodie.

Elodie became an MFPA Student Member in 1996 after a swimming pool accident at the age of 12 left her quadriplegic. She has been creating her artworks, painted with a brush held in her mouth, ever since.

MFPA is a self-help organisation which gives disabled people the opportunity to fulfil their creative ambitions while still maintaining financial independence, by selectively selling their highly regarded works of art.

MFPA was founded in 1956 by a group of mainly Swiss, French, British and German artists. It was established in New Zealand more than forty years ago and today has a membership of over 700 disabled artists in more than 70 countries throughout the world.

To become a Student Member an artist must qualify by painting using a brush held in either their mouth or foot, having lost the use of their hands through an illness or accident. Once an artist becomes a Full Member or Associate they are guaranteed a salary for life, even if they are unable to continue painting.

For further information on the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists or to place an order contact MFPA on (09) 827 6746.

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Released for MFPA by Dennis Rutzou Public Relations.
For further information contact Kim Larochelle
or Aleks Czerwinski on (612) 9413 4244.