Glen Eden Intermediate student shows talent

Talented painter Chinmay Patel is raising money for the Child Cancer Foundation. Photo: BEN WATSON

By LEANNE WARR

It's been two years since Chinmay Patel was stuck in hospital facing a bone marrow transplant.

Now the 11 year-old Glen Eden Intermediate School pupil is wanting to give back to the charity that helped him through.

The young artist is holding an exhibition to raise money for the Child Cancer Foundation.

Chinmay who diagnosed with leukaemia in 2005 was in hospital when he first put brush to canvas.

He entered the resulting picture in a competition run by the foundation and won lessons with west Auckland tutor and artist Mandy Patmore.

"It just went from there," Chinmay says. "Even when I was in hospital the play therapist would give me paper."Chinmay has since done nearly 30 paintings.

All are included in the exhibition at Unitec from to September 29 October 5. "Proceeds will be given to the Child Cancer Foundation," he says.

"They've done a lot for me."

Chinmay still goes to hospital regularly for check-ups but says he is doing well. Painting has become his way of expressing what he is feeling.

He's not been able to go outside since he got sick - except on fine days - and often uses what he sees from home as his inspiration.He hopes people will support the exhibition."

I want lots of people to come."

Chinmay's mother Komal is grateful for the help charities like the foundation give to children.

"It makes a very big difference in their lives," she says.

Chinmay's exhibition is being held in conjunction with the Waitakere Trust Art Awards organised by the Waitakere City Community Arts Council.

Western Leader