Paintings aid hospice

Computer savvy Neal Utting found a creative way to raise funds for Hospice Waikato.

He took photographs of scenery, including some favourite spots at Hamilton Gardens. Art software on his computer was used to make the images look like paintings.

The finished pictures were then professionally printed on canvases and the completed artworks are for sale at selected hospice shops.

Neal's interest in raising funds for Hospice came about through seeing the commitment of his wife Marylou, a former secretary of Friends of Hospice.

A couple of years ago, he took on a volunteering role as a regular assistant to hospice's van driver. The role gave Neal an awareness of the needs of patients with life-limiting illnesses.

"I saw that creating and selling my artworks was a way I could help," he said.

The art works are A3 size (twice the size of standard letterhead paper). Neal reckons they make an ideal souvenir for overseas visitors to take home - light, flat and easy to pack. At $80, the printed canvases are attractive and affordable.

To choose an artwork, go to the brochure on the Hospice website, www.hospicewaikato.org.nz. It is possible to order online or through Hospice shops in Hamilton's Victoria St shop, Va Va Voom, Te Awamutu, Cambridge and Morrinsville. The Hamilton Gardens pictures are also available at the Hamilton Gardens Shop. Delivery is usually within a fortnight of ordering.