Shouldham's Emily's memory celebrated in art exhibition

Her tragic death has already acted as the inspiration for a marathon fundraising effort.

Now the art of Emily Owen, from Shouldham, will be seen by the public as part of an exhibition in support of youth suicide prevention.

Emily died in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in March 2020, aged just 19, and her father Tim was one of the 3 Dads Walking that in October raised hundreds of thousands of pounds by a 300-mile trek from Cumbria to West Norfolk for Papyrus, which works to prevent youth suicides.

Now Art Academy East are to host Art for Life, a marathon fundraising art event in support of youth suicide prevention in memory of Emily, it will be raising funds on behalf of Papyrus and 3 Dads Walking.

On January 25, Art Academy East will host an all-day hands-on art event at their bright Norwich studio space.

Emily was a talented artist and valued student who created works with AAE including a beautiful portrait of actor Sir Ian McKellen.

The 3 Dads, who each lost their daughters to suicide won hearts across the UK as well as generous donations from actors Daniel Craig and Nicole Kidman.

Claire Frances Smith, Art Academy East director said: "We decided to call our event Art for Life as it has double meaning for us.

"It is a creative, fun event that promotes a life-saving charity, and also underlines the importance of art in lifelong learning, wellbeing and society.

"We have been so inspired by the 3 Dads Walking and wanted to lend our support to help to raise awareness of Papyrus and also highlight Emily’s special talent as an artist.’"

Mr Owen said: "Emily’s suicide was totally devastating to family, friends and colleagues.

"She had just no idea how many people's lives she touched and now continues to impact through events like this.

"Em was such an amazing and talented artist but would never have believed that her art would be showcased and used to raise life-saving funds for PAPYRUS.

"So, thank you for supporting Art Academy East's Art for Life event and celebrating Em's art with us.

"Your support will be saving young people's lives."

The day is all about having fun and trying something new with no need to be an expert.

From complete beginners to experienced creators, Art Academy East welcomes everyone to paint-along or clay throwdown.

All artists will come away with their own fabulous artwork to take home whilst also supporting a life-saving cause.

Esther James, Art Academy East creative director said: "When a person decides to take their own life, for the family, the discussions held around the circumstances of their death can often overshadow celebrating who the person was, how they lived their life and their achievements.

"We passionately support charity work around the prevention of suicide and help for bereaved families and we feel strongly about creating an event that showcased Emily’s considerable artistic abilities."

Ged Flynn, chief executive of Papyrus said: "Art for Life is an amazing example of how we can all work together to raise greater awareness of the vital support which is available and help to engage with young people.

"Events, fundraising, and donations help to pay for potentially life-saving calls, texts and emails to our confidential HOPELINEUK service, which offers support and advice to young people and anyone who is worried about a young person who may be having thoughts of suicide.

"Your support also helps Papyrus to engage with local communities and volunteers in suicide prevention projects and supports the training we deliver to individuals and groups.

"Together we must continue giving hope to young people who are struggling with life."