What do you get when you bring together two committed Seva Canada supporters, one incredible artist, a beautiful beachside home and an inspired community? An art show fundraiser for Seva Canada that raised enough to restore the sight of 40 people!
Hugh and Gloria Sutcliffe are long-time, devoted Seva supporters, and have even travelled to visit Seva’s programs. “Having had the opportunity to see what Seva does firsthand—If you’re with someone who has been blind for a long time, and then they have a $50 operation and they can see again, it’s a miracle—an absolute miracle,” says Hugh.
Gloria added: “People have stopped living, cooking, leaving their homes, or caring for their grandkids. They’ve been hidden away. Seva Canada helps them regain life, not just sight. It’s really touching to see this all happen, and to see their family’s eyes light up too. It’s pretty special.”
Hugh and Gloria have always been inspired by the creative ways that volunteers raise awareness and funds for Seva Canada. As they started their retirement and moved to a new home on the beach in Parksville, BC, they thought about how much they’d like to spread the word about Seva Canada, while also getting to know their new neighbours.
Artist Ranjan Sen with Gloria and Hugh Sutcliffe beside the beautiful watercolour painting generously donated for a door prize.
Everything came together perfectly when their friend, renowned artist Ranjan Sen, mentioned he hadn’t had the chance to have an art show in some time because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ranjan and his wife Rachel love bringing people together to enjoy Ranjan’s unique watercolour and oil paintings; Hugh and Gloria’s new home would be the perfect venue.
Ranjan—whose connection to Seva Canada goes all the way back to the 1980s—decided to donate a beautiful watercolour as a door prize to encourage people to come, learn about Seva Canada, and enjoy an inspiring afternoon.
“I couldn’t be a painter without having eyesight and vision! It’s of primary importance” said Ranjan.
“In the 80s (artists) John Woodcock and Toni Onley talked to me about Seva and how I should be an active participant. I hope my painting inspires people to donate.”
Artist Ranjan Sen and his stunning watercolour painting
And it did! The event was a big success, raising over $2000 in donations, which is enough to restore the sight of 40 people. Thank you Hugh, Gloria, Ranjan and Rachel!
