Timothy John with sketches for clip of Montegrappa Tulips for Team Fox pen collection.
TIMOTHY JOHN
In addition to its reputation for making exquisite products, Italian pen maker Montegrappa is also known for its giving heart, having produced a number of products with a philanthropic purpose over the years. The company’s most recent example of its altruistic work is the Tulips for Team Fox pen collection, wherein a portion of the proceeds from every purchase will help fund the Michael J. Fox Foundation and its efforts to help find a cure for Parkinson’s Disease. The collection was conceived and designed by Australian visual artist Timothy John, a Montegrappa ambassador, collaborator and friend, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2017.
“I have known Timothy for quite a long time and know well how Parkinson’s has affected his life and the lives of many,” says Montegrappa C.E.O. Giuseppe Aquila. “It is a disease that changes everything and a cure must be found.” So when John came up with the idea for this collection, “I didn't need to think, and in a split second I told him that we were onboard,” shares Aquila.
John, whose works have been exhibited widely throughout his native Australia and indeed the rest of the world, first took his art to the much smaller canvas of a pen several years ago. In 2013, he collaborated with Montegrappa on The Four Seasons series of four unique hand-painted writing instruments offered in a boxed set. This project was followed by the White Heron fountain pen, also in collaboration with Montegrappa.
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“After I received my Parkinson's Disease diagnosis,” says John, “I discussed with dear friend Giuseppe the possibility of creating a Montegrappa pen for global release, with the aim to raise awareness and money for a Parkinson's Disease research. He was very enthusiastic about the idea. ”
And when doubt reared its head, friendship prevailed.
“Giuseppe was very supportive of my involvement as designer of the pen, encouraging me, even though he knew I had doubts about my capabilities, which were somewhat limited due to the disease and the associated tremors and bouts of depression.”
“While we were confident of producing a beautiful pen, we were unsure of where the money raised from sales would be directed,” says John. “After much research and due diligence, the Michael J. Fox Foundation and Team Fox were selected as our preferred partners.”
The pens (fountain pen, rollerball and ballpoint), handmade in Italy, feature steel pocket clips designed by John in the shape of a tulip, which has been the global symbol of Parkinson’s awareness since the 1980s. The resin barrel’s orange hue reflects the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s signature color, while the resin cap is tulip red. The pen comes in a complementary orange and red presentation box.
John’s life has changed dramatically since his diagnosis, but he says he’s been having more good days than bad of late, owing to his positive attitude, his work and, of course, a loyal support group.
“I know that many people are much worse than I am, dealing with severe debilitation,” the artist says. “I have so much to be thankful for, in particular my loving, supportive, nurturing and wonderful partner, Lorraine, and my wonderful and caring doctors.”
The Michael J. Fox Foundation has funded more than $800 million in research over the years, all with the goal of accelerating new and improved treatments and, of course, a cure. Its motto? “Here. Until Parkinson’s isn’t.”
https://www.forbes.com/sites/nancyolson/2019/10/02/montegrappa-partners-with-artist-timothy-john-to-fight-parkinsons-disease/#23c5998e4ca1
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