Well-known Plumpton artist helps Philippines appeal

What is certain is the urgent and continuing need for aid. Unlike many of us, Plumpton artist Grant DeJonge has gone beyond feeling moved by the catastrophe to launching a fund-raising event to make a difference and he hopes as many people as possible will support it.

The typhoon, known locally as Typhoon Yolanda, caused devastation, with about three-quarters of a million people losing their homes. The southern city of Tacloban and nearby villages were flattened by winds of up to 190 mph and the massive tidal surge, which struck two weeks ago.

Grant told the Middy: “I listened to the coverage and my thoughts turned to my family. What if that were my family and me, how could I bear clinging onto my children for dear life and survive the aftermath of such a tragedy?”

Grant decided to launch an ART 4 AID exhibition and auction. He contacted artists and local galleries who have been very generous and offered to submit work for the event on November 29.

Paintings, jewellery, sculptures and contemporary artworks are being donated free of charge. Grant is also donating ten pieces from his much admired back catalogue of landscapes of the South Downs.

He told the Middy: “If there are any artists who would like to donate works to this appeal, please can they contact me directly by e-mail at: grantdejonge

All the money raised will go to through the Disasters Emergency Committee (Charity Register No 106263) for the Philippines Typhoon Appeal.

The ART 4 AID event will be held on Friday, November 29 between 6pm and 10pm at Plumpton Village Hall, 1 Westgate, Plumpton Green. Please support it if you can.

Pictured: Grant Dejonge

Pictured: One of Grant’s landscapes