Everyone Counts

A couple of years ago, I read about a South African charity called "Everyone Counts".  They look after after abandoned babies. It seems it's a big problem there, the result of poverty. The charity was appealing for artists around the world to create a picture and send it to them for sale, to raise funds.

Every picture was to be the same size (16"x16"), and they were all to be sold at the same price; 1000 rand.

I was moved by what I read and decided to contribute. I started off thinking I'd paint some butterflies, since they're an international symbol for children. But when the paint hit the canvas, something odd happened. What emerged was this picture of a woman, holding a child, against a background of muted rainbow colours. South Africa is known as the Rainbow country.

I sent it off and after receiving a lot of Thanks, I forgot about it.


Then last month a card fell through the mail slot. It was a postcard from the charity asking for more contributions. And it was my picture they've used for their appeal.

I feel so honoured, I really do. And I'm not even sure that's the right word. I'm humbled by the work they do- they are now also campaigning against human trafficking- and I'm so thrilled they've used my work.