Irvine painter reveals fight with Parkinson's was creative spark behind award-winning art

June 30, 2016

Margaret Rae says her Parkinson's years have produced a wealth of good work

An Irvine amateur painter who lives with Parkinson's Disease has just been recognised for her art skills at a top competition.

Margaret Rae received first prize in the art category at the 2016 Mervyn Peake Awards.

Margaret’s painting, titled ‘Still Dancing While We Still Can’, depicts something special for her and husband Ross, in this, their golden wedding anniversary year.

“Dancing is something most couples enjoy. Many of my generation met in a dance hall. That’s why I chose to paint hands linked in a dance, since it is a partnership with love,” said Margaret.Margaret, 73, gained Higher Art at Irvine Royal Academy, encouraged, she says, by ‘inspiring art teachers’.

She said: “However, primary school teaching was my career. I tried to use my art talents to give joy and opportunities to my pupils.

“My ‘shake’ has little effect on my painting so far. I also enjoy using pencils, pastels and charcoal and I paint whatever takes my fancy; my painting has become a more important part of my life.

“Broken sleep patterns are one of the more troublesome issues I have with Parkinson’s.

Margaret's prizewinning painting "Still Dancing While We Still Can"

“This painting was done in the very early hours of the morning, when I am wide awake and ideas are churning in my mind.

“My Parkinson’s years seem to be producing a wealth of good work.”

The judge for this year’s art category was Louise Kaye, who said: “This is beautifully executed and has a wonderful idea behind it. It tells a story.”

Margaret added: “This is a special year for my husband Ross and myself, as we celebrate our golden wedding in July. This award gives an added sparkle and it will encourage me to keep painting as long as I can.”

Tania Diggory, marketing project manager for the awards, said: “For many people, particularly those with Parkinson’s, having a creative outlet can be emotionally fulfilling.

“We heard many stories from entrants this year about how getting back in touch with a talent that had perhaps lain dormant due to the demands of a busy life, or discovering a skill they never knew they had, has really enhanced their mental and emotional well-being.

                 Renowned author Mervyn Peake lived with Parkinson's

It will be open daily from 11am to 6pm, with free admission.

The awards, now in their 15th year, are organised by the charity Parkinson’s UK, in memory of the late artist and author Mervyn Peake, who lived with Parkinson’s.

The Mervyn Peake Awards are exclusively open to people with Parkinson’s, and invites people to submit creative entries in a range of categories, including photography, books and poetry.

Read more at http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/irvine-painter-reveals-fight-parkinsons-8315266#y51U7XO9DyZjZMDI.99

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