Picture-perfect act of charity by award-winning designer

BY JACKIE KEOGH

AN award-winning Skibbereen designer has donated a painting that will be used by the West Cork Animal Welfare Group as part of its Christmas card pack. 

Tory Joyce confirmed that every year the organisation produces eight seasonal cards – two of which are made from donated paintings – and this raises a lot of money for the charitable organisation.

Tory described Irene Paradisi’s card, which features Rebel and Rex – two of the dogs that were rescued and rehomed by the WCAW this year – as ‘adorable.’

So, too, is the other painting by Cecilia Scholte Lubberink. It is of Pilgrim, another dog that made a marvellous recovery after it went into the care of the WCAW. 

Tory said that both artists did a remarkable job on the paintings and, as Christmas cards go, they certainly convey the meaning of season, and the work done by the WCAW group.

Italian-born Irene, who works as a graphic designer with The Southern Star and is a long-time supporter of the West Cork Animal Welfare Group, regularly donates artwork, which is sold at Tory’s stall at Skibbereen Farmer’s Market.

Tory confirmed that silent bids can be taken on both paintings at Skibbereen market in the run-up to Christmas and all proceeds will go to the charity.

Irene said: ‘I was more than happy to donate the painting. It’s a fantastic organisation – everyone who knows Tory and everyone else involved knows how much work and dedication they put in, 52 weeks of the year.’

One of Irene’s ad designs scooped the Best Local Advertisement of the Year title at the 2019 regional newspaper awards.