“It is a privilege to have my works included in the Geelong MFPA exhibition alongside MFPA artworks from around the world. This is a great event for the Association,” said Gary.

Gary will be exhibiting two of his artworks including ‘Flood Time’ and Autumn Clouds’. Both oil paintings were inspired by the natural beauty of his home town.

“Dorrigo is surrounded by endless natural beauty. The local landscapes never fail to inspire me to paint. I enjoy the challenge of transferring the beauty of Dorrigo onto canvas”, said Gary.

Gary was encouraged to try mouth painting by an occupational therapist, while recovering in hospital after a diving accident left him a quadriplegic. Initially Gary experimented with black and white sketches and moved on to oils three years later. He was awarded a Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) student membership in 1981.

Since becoming a student member of MFPA, Gary has experimented with several mouth painting techniques and developed a true passion for art.

“Painting enables me to be free. It is the best source of relaxation. There is nothing better than being outside with my paints, surrounded by nature”, said Gary.

Gary’s work can be viewed at the MFPA exhibition to be held from Monday, 14 September to Sunday, 27 September 2009 at The Shearer’s Arms Gallery, 202 Aberdeen St, West Geelong, Victoria.

The Shearer’s Arms Gallery is open Monday to Friday from 11am to 5 pm. Admission to the exhibition is free.

The MFPA was established in Australia in 1971 and currently has 17 members around the country.

To become a student member an artist must qualify by painting using a brush held in either their mouth or foot, having lost the use of their hands through an illness or accident. Student members receive scholarships for art supplies and tuition. Once an artist becomes a full member or associate they are guaranteed a salary for life, even if they are unable to continue painting.

For further information on the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists contact MFPA on (02) 9698 3933 or visit www.mfpa.com.au.