Late painter’s artwork provides helping hand to those with dementia in Wrexham

Paintings by a Wrexham woman who had dementia are funding art classes for people living with the same condition.

Pat Rayfield, who passed away in 2017, aged 93, discovered a passion for painting in her later life, even after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

Pat produced hundreds of watercolours – many of which were sold by her family last year to raise funds to help other people living with dementia.

Proceeds from further sales this year, totalling £200, have been given to the Dementia Friendly Wrexham group and the money will go towards supporting the weekly art project they run.

The classes are completely free for anyone living with dementia. All materials are provided free, and carers also attend. The classes have been running since last September and are held at St Margaret’s Church and Community Hall, on Chester Road, Wrexham, every Wednesday (1pm-3pm).

Two of Pat’s family members, Ann Edwards-Jones and Jo Edwards, recently called in to one of the art classes to hand over the £200 cheque. Jo, proprietor of Rossett-based Aballu Artisan Chocolates, even took along a unique edition of her chocolates, which are printed with some of Pat’s paintings.

Norah Lucas, chair of Dementia Friendly Wrexham, said: “We’re extremely grateful to Pat’s family for carrying her memory forward in such a positive and generous way. The money raised will help ensure the art classes continue to provide this important support for people with dementia.

“Pat really was a model for people living with dementia. She discovered she loved painting and found it very calming. She and her family carried on doing all they could to enjoy life, even after her diagnosis. It’s fitting that her work is being used in such a positive way.”

There are places available at the art classes. Anyone interested in attending should email Dementia Friendly Wrexham at: [email protected].