By Samuel Marriott-Dowding, Marriott Communications
As a PR agency, Marriott Communications is often given the opportunity to support the third sector, so when Aura Fine Art Newcastle approached us to support their ‘King of Hearts’ charity fundraiser in aid of Rainbow Migration, Crisis, and Freedom From Torture – how could we possibly say no?
The fundraiser, taking place on Saturday 10th February at their gallery in the iconic Newcastle landmark, Fenwicks, will showcase the remarkable work of the exceptionally inspirational and talented King. King’s creations will be displayed alongside a carefully curated collection of love-themed pieces from Aura’s portfolio of accomplished national and international artists.
King, a LGBTQIA+ refugee fled her homeland to avoid persecution and has since been living in the UK where she has been supported by Rainbow Migration, Crisis, and Freedom From Torture. After meeting with King for the first time at our planning meeting, I was heartbroken for all she has had to endure in her life, but I was also in awe of her resilience, bravery, and the passion for life and love that radiates from her.
After meeting with King she kindly sent me over a quote for media use, and it is an extract that exemplifies her bravery and why this fundraising event is so important.
King said: “Having suffered greatly from persecution and violent acts which resulted in severe mental trauma. I had begun to give up on life until I was rescued by these three unbelievable Charities, who for the first time that I could remember really reached out to me and helped me on the difficult road to rebuild my life. For the first time I have begun to express myself through my paintings and my poem which I hope will raise some funds for these very deserving Charities.”
Marriott Communications is no stranger to supporting third sector organisations or social causes.
We have been fortunate enough to work with dozens of incredible charities across the UK, donating over 700 pro bono hours of support. It is not uncommon to at times feel disconnected from the cause, especially when so much of our work takes place digitally, but meeting with King in person, hearing her story, and of the vital work of the three charities really reaffirmed for me the importance of leading with compassion, empathy, and heart.
The ‘King of Hearts’ charity fundraiser takes place on Saturday 10th February, 4-7 PM at Aura Fine Art Newcastle. RSVPS to the event can be made to newcastle@aurafineart.co.uk or on 0191 511 1856.