Artist Peter Howson to walk across Scotland for Autism
The Glasgow-based artist, will attempt to walk across Scotland in a journey of over 300 miles this Spring as part of a series of activities to Put Autism on the Map.
Peter Howson visits Art Opportunities in Alloa
Autism has had a direct impact on Peter and his family. He has personally been diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, and his daughter Lucy, who is now a young adult, also lives with autism. The artist says he’s hoping to raise tens of thousands of pounds for autism and increase public understanding.
The “Putting Autism on the Map” charity walk will kick off in Aberdeen on 2 April and is due to conclude at the end the month in Peter's home town of Ayr. Throughout his venture he will be involved in a series of planned awareness-raising events within local communities covering the route. He also plans to do a series of daily sketches throughout his trek which will be used to raise further funds for Scottish Autism.
The challenge has already attracted an initial £50,000 of sponsorship from property investment firm Raven Russia whose Deputy Chairman Anton Bilton is a client and admirer of Mr Howson’s work.
Peter Howson is a painter with an international reputation. He was the UK Government’s official artist during the 1993 Bosnian Civil War where his often graphic paintings highlighted the brutality of that conflict. More recently he was commissioned to paint the official Christmas card for Scottish First Minister. His portrait of Artaban, the fourth wise man, is due to be auctioned off for charity early this year.
Peter has endured many years of illness and poor health, brought on by an excessive lifestyle and stress which was partly linked to his Asperger’s Syndrome. However, last year, with support from his partner and a new team of advisers, he began to adopt a healthy living regime and has been using exercise as a route to both physical and mental wellbeing.
Commenting on the plans to walk across Scotland, Mr Howson said: “I am passionate about 'Putting Autism on the Map' and helping the charity Scottish Autism with the great work they are doing to enhance the lives of people who live with this condition. In doing this walk I hope I will help promote understanding and awareness of the challenges faced by people living with autism and their families.
“I feel I could be a good ambassador for the charity as autism is part of my family and affects me personally. From my own experiences I am also beginning to really understand the benefits that a healthy lifestyle combined with creative arts can bring in terms of improving personal wellbeing and reducing anxiety.
“The training for this challenge is well underway and I now look forward to April when I can begin this journey which will not only benefit my own personal development but will also hopefully raise a lot of awareness and money to support people with autism.”
