Patonga artist in epilepsy art auction

A Patonga artist is one of 160 prominent and emerging artists nation-wide participating in Art for Epilepsy, an online art auction raising funds for people living with epilepsy.

Ms Vanessa Ashcroft, from Patonga's Salt and Sand studio and gallery, said she was happy to donate to the cause when event organisers approached her.

"Throughout my 25 years as an artist, I've endeavoured to help others through acts of art philanthropy when I can and when I was asked to get on board there was no way I could decline," Ms Ashcroft said.

"The need was there, and I really enjoy the fact that this auction makes art more accessible to people, with the majority of the pieces up for auction being really affordable," Ms Ashcroft said.

Ms Ashcroft's piece, entitled "Seated Nude", is composed with inks, oils, pastels and acrylics and adds an element of home to the national auction, with the piece featuring Central Coast life model Ms Jaqui Pasco.

Close to 200 artworks are up for auction, including water colours, abstracts and illustrations.

The auction opened on February 14 and will conclude at 9pm on International Epilepsy Awareness Day on March 26.

Epilepsy Action is the largest provider of education and support services to children and adults with epilepsy across Australia.

Funds raised from the auction will go towards supporting their programs.

The charity's mission is to enable people living with epilepsy to unlock their true potential, better manage their condition, and to ultimately lead happier lives.

Interview, 14 Mar 2017

Vanessa Ashcroft, Artist

Media release, 14 Mar 2017

Rachel McDougall, Lanham PR

Reporter: Dilon Luke