Artists to help Rainbow Love

More than 52 Central Coast artists have joined together for a special arts project aimed to raise money for local charity Rainbow Love.

The Community Artwork for Charity initiative was founded by artist Mr Roger Heighington after he became involved in the Super Arts project at Tuggerah nine months ago.

The Super Art Project involved local artists who had taken up residence in several empty shops in a Tuggerah shopping outlet under the supervision of fellow artist Mr Yianni Johns.

Rainbow Love founder Ms Susie O'Donnell said the project was an innovative and creative way to assist the charity in reaching its true potential.

"Roger has been a supporter of Rainbow Love since its formation a year ago," Ms O'Donnell said.

"He came up with the idea to invite artists at the Tuggerah centre to become involved in a group work after being impressed by their level of talent.

"The artwork will be comprised of 14 canvases with the theme of community and it is expected to be completed within three months."

Ms O'Donnell said it was also great to see the support of Mr Heighington's cousin West Tigers NRL player Chris Heighington in the initiative.

"As we all know Chris Heighington is a hard worker on the field.

"But there is another side to Chris and he is working just as hard off the field raising funds for various charities including Rainbow Love.

"The joint venture between Chris and Roger is also to support the Super Arts Project at Tuggerah.

"Raffle tickets will be sold during the next few months and the public are invited to come and view the progress along with the other many artworks by talented local artists.

"Chris is also keen to help out will be contributing memorabilia to raffle and auction off.

"Once the artwork is completed a large fundraising day will be held at the Tuggerah centre with local craftspeople, stallholders, musicians and various dance and theatre schools invited to participate.

"A date for this special day will be advised closer to the artwork's completion."

Rainbow Love raises much-needed funds for children on the Central Coast with chronic and complex conditions and their carers.

Press release, 24 Mar 2009 Susie O'Donnell, Rainbow Love