Glenn Barnett's talent shines in national Christmas card range

MEDIA RELEASE 30 October 2007

Glenn Barnett's talent shines in national Christmas card range
Port Lincoln mouth painting artist Glenn Barnett has once again had his artwork 'In the Dawson Range', painted with a brush held in his mouth, selected for inclusion in the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) Christmas card range.

Glenn, a member of the MFPA, began painting in 1964 after a diving accident two years earlier left him a quadriplegic at the age of 17. He is renowned for his typically Australian landscape paintings inspired by his travels, as seen in his Christmas range artwork.

'In the Dawson Range' depicts an outback landscape from Glenn's travels. The painting has been reproduced on Christmas cards as part of this year's MFPA Christmas card range sent to households nationally.

Glenn is an active member of the MFPA and often displays his paintings at local and interstate art exhibitions. He recently received First Prize at the 2007 Royal Melbourne Show for his painting 'Mallee in the drought'.

"MFPA artists really take the opportunity to prove their talent and support themselves despite not being able to use their hands to paint.

"Through the MFPA we have a chance to earn a living doing what we love. For us, it's not about pity or sympathy – that's not what the MFPA stands for," said Glenn.

The complete 2007 Christmas card range can be ordered online at www.mfpa.com.au or by phoning (02) 9698 3933.

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 Australia in 1971 and currently has 17 members around the country.

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.

Released for MFPA by Dennis Rutzou Public Relations (www.drpr.com.au)
For further information please call Aleks Czerwinski or Anthia Crosby on (02) 9413 4244.

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