A teenager who has a rare genetic disorder that makes it difficult to use his hands, is hoping to sell several pieces of his artwork to raise money for Haven House Children’s Hospice.
Harry Luxton, 18, from Harold Wood, has Duchenne muscular dystrophy – a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. He has to use a wheelchair.
But this hasn’t stopped him from creating incredible contemporary art on canvas.
Some of his paintings are on display in Haven House’s Holistic Care Centre and Harry hopes the public will be encouraged to buy his work to raise funds for the hospice in Woodford Green which is celebrating its 15th birthday this year.
Harry sold his first two paintings last month at the Mayor of Redbridge’s Valentines Ball.
He has been using Haven House since 2015 and has benefited from respite care which has developed his independence and confidence.
Harry has also attended events such as Haven House’s Comedy Night, Summer Fair and Pumpkin Plod.
In 2016, he spoke about the realities of living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in an appeal film for Haven House which was unveiled at the charity’s annual ball.
When Harry was first told about Haven House, he had a different idea of what it would be like.
He said: “I thought it was going to be like a hospital and quite boring with not much to do, but it’s not as scary as you think it will be – it’s great!
“Coming here really helps; it helps with my confidence, there are lots of people to talk to if you have problems and I get to do things which I might not normally get to do.”
Eileen White, director of care at Haven House, said: “Harry’s art is incredible and we are delighted that he has chosen to donate some of his pieces to the hospice.
“His paintings have been on display and you can’t help but notice the beauty of them each time you see them.”
To view Harry’s collection of art visit havenhouse.org.uk/harrys-art
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