Kerrin Tilley - Local mouth-painting artist to exhibit at the Queensland EKKA show, Australia

MEDIA RELEASE 20 July 2009

Local mouth-painting artist to exhibit at the Queensland EKKA show, Australia
Mouth-painting artist Kerrin Tilley from Opotiki will once again be sending his paintings across to Australian shores for the Royal Queensland Show (EKKA) from 6 to 15 August at the RNA showgrounds in Brisbane.

Kerrin has entered two paintings into the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists' (MFPA) section at this year's EKKA art competition; a colourful and realistic depiction of his gerbera flowers growing in his garden, as well as an abstract acrylic painting entitled 'Figure Study' which explores the use of colour, tone and the human form.

'Figure Study' was awarded forth place at the MFPA display at this year's Auckland Royal Easter Show.

"The Brisbane EKKA is a great opportunity to exhibit the extraordinary talent of the MFPA artists. I also enjoy seeing what the Australian MFPA artists have been working on as well as proudly representing my own country", said Kerrin.

Kerrin began painting with a brush held in his mouth in 1988 after suffering a neck injury while playing rugby. He has been a member of the MFPA and also the Opotiki Society since 1992, and became an associate MFPA member in 2005.

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 contact MFPA on (09) 827 6746.

Released for Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) by Dennis Rutzou Public Relations (www.drpr.com.au)
For further information please call Gemma Crowley or Nicola Rutzou on 0011 61 2 9413 4244.

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