Renowned Scottish illustrator Johanna Basford OBE has become a patron of The Archie Foundation, after supporting the charity with her intricate drawings and murals.
Johanna’s inky creations already adorn the walls of the outpatient unit at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital (RACH), and she is looking forward to continuing her association with the local children’s charity.
She has also donated a money-can’t-buy prize for the charity’s fundraising ball this weekend.
“I was so delighted and humbled when The Archie Foundation asked me to be a patron. I think it is a truly wonderful charity, doing hugely important work that impacts so many of us.
“As a mum, I know first-hand that anxious feeling of sitting by your child’s hospital bed. It’s at times like this that The Archie Foundation makes an incredible difference to families.
“Having the opportunity to play my small part in helping to make these difficult times that little bit easier, for children and their grown-ups, is a privilege I am so grateful to have.”
Johanna has sold more than 25 million colouring books around the world and broke the Guiness World Record for creating the largest drawing by an individual.
Speaking about becoming a patron for The Archie Foundation, Johanna said: “I’ve spent the last few months giving RACH an inky makeover, covering their walls with colourful pictures. Now I’m looking forward to the next chapter of working alongside the Archie team. I hope we can bring lots more smiles, happy vibes and creativity to the hospital!
“There’s so much great work, and so many heartwarming stories and exciting projects coming out of The Archie Foundation, it’s going to be so much fun being a part of that and helping to spread the good news!”
Paula Cormack, chief executive of The Archie Foundation, said: “It is fantastic that Johanna has agreed to come on board as a patron. We have loved working with her to date. Her energy and enthusiasm for our work is phenomenal. We are also looking forward to welcoming her to our Disco Ball which is taking place this Saturday at The Chester Hotel.”
Johanna has donated a prize which will be auctioned off to the highest bidder during a live auction at Saturday’s 80s themed Disco Ball. One lucky bidder, and up to two friends, will join Johanna at her studio in Ellon.
Johanna said: “I’m looking forward to welcoming the winner of my special auction prize to the studio for their art lesson! I get to share my passion for creativity with people all over the world via social media, but it’s always extra special when you can get around the same table and make a glorious creative mess together! And of course, there will be lots of unique inky treasures to take home!”
Johanna shares the feelings of many parents who have received support from The Archie Foundation.
“As a local mum, I feel huge gratitude to Archie for helping my own family and so many of my friends’ families too. Lots of us have been the lucky recipient of support in some form or another from The Archie Foundation, so to give something back is both humbling, and a responsibility I take very seriously.”
The Disco Ball is being held at The Chester Hotel this Saturday, August 26 from 7pm until 1am. Tables of 10 cost £1,000 or individual tickets are £100. Contact lynne.brooks@archie.org for more information and to book.
