Curtains: a retrospective

Tim Platt aged 59, who was diagnosed with colon cancer and lymphoma in October 2016, spoke candidly about his cancer at the launch of a Macmillan Cancer Support funded initiative last September called the ‘Improving the Cancer Journey in Powys’ programme. He explained how his love of art helped his well-being and how his aspiration was to put on an exhibition of his work.

After hearing Tim’s story, Councillor Myfanwy Alexander, Cabinet Member for Adult Services at Powys County Council got in touch with the centre manager and introductions were subsequently made. The exhibition will showcase Tim’s pottery, sculpture, drawings, and paintings including some digital examples and creations that use recycled materials. Some of Tim’s work relates directly to his illness and focuses on some of the daily tasks that he now has to incorporate into his life. A large proportion of his work will be for sale with prices to suit all pockets and the monies raised going to Macmillan and the Lingen Davies Centre.

With help from the Macmillan ICJ programme, I’ve been able to achieve a life-long ambition to exhibit my art. I’m thrilled that the Mid Wales Art Centre has agreed to host my work and hope people will come along and see how art can tell a story. I’m aiming to sell some of my pieces and raise funds to support both Macmillan and also the Lingen Davies Centre at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital. The centre is where I have my chemotherapy every fortnight and recently, I’ve had my 100th session. Being given this opportunity to share my art is wonderful.