Hamilton artist Peter Van Der Hulst paints his way into Christmas

MEDIA RELEASE 17 November 2011

Hamilton artist Peter Van Der Hulst paints his way into Christmas
Mouth painting artist and Hamilton resident, Peter Van Der Hulst, has his artwork included in the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) 2011 Christmas card range and 2012 calendar. These are sold throughout New Zealand to enable the members to earn a living, support their family and live as independently as possible.

Thirty-three years ago, at the young age of 19, Peter was involved in a car crash which paralysed him from the upper chest down.

Despite being encouraged to "have a go at painting" from friends, it was not until Peter was administered into the newly-opened spinal unit that mouth painting became a large part of his life.

"When I was in the spinal unit I was encouraged to give mouth painting a go by my unit resident, Bruce Hopkins, who is a full member of the Australian Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (AMFPA).

"I submitted my work and I have never looked back," said Peter.

This year's range will include Peter's painting, 'Beauty of Nature', which is based on the beauty that can be found just outside the front door.

"There is always such beauty in nature that an artist does not have to travel the world to find inspiration. A simple wander through the garden studying flowers and foliage can lead to wonderful subjects for painting," said Peter.

After years of trial and error, Peter believes that with each painting comes learning and with learning comes a better quality painting.

"The water droplets on the flowers, for example, would have been an element to painting that I would have never attempted ten years ago.

"Being a member of the MFPA, who providing for the Christmas card range, allows me the time and the financial independence to advance my artistic skills and meet other artists of similar disability," he said.

For over 40 years, the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists' Christmas cards and calendars have been distributed to millions of households around Australia and New Zealand.

About the MFPA

Founded in 1956 by a group of European artists, the MFPA is a self-help organisation which gives people with disabilities the opportunity to fulfil their creative ambitions while still maintaining financial independence by selectively selling their artworks.

The MFPA was established in New Zealand in 1961 and currently has 20 members.

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. Student members receive scholarships for art supplies and tuition. 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.

Released for MFPA by Dennis Rutzou Public Relations (www.drpr.com.au)
For further information please call Nicola Rutzou or Sam Kilborn on 61 2 9413 4244.

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