Mother uses artistic talent to 'spread the light' in local care centres (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Marshalswick mother Laura Jones uses artistic talent to 'spread the light' in local care centres

2:10pm Friday 8th March 2013 in News By Zoe Forsey, Senior Reporter

A mother from Marshalswick is putting her artistic talent to good use by brightening up community care centres.

Laura Jones, who lives in The Ridgeway, is looking for hospices, care homes and children’s centres that could do with a bit of colour.

The 28-year-old said: "People have said that my paintings make them feel happy so I thought it would be great if I could make people happy in places where there is a bit of sadness.

"It is amazing how much a little painting can lift your spirits.

"People try to do big gestures to feel better but I think the small things help."

Miss Jones came up with the idea after her son Indi was born nine months ago.

She said: "I am a trained artist and have been freelancing for many years but since the arrival of my young baby, life has taken a different perspective.

"A lot of people have helped me and it is really nice to be able to give something back.

"I was just thinking what do I have that could make a bit of a difference.

"Cuts are happening left right and centre at the moment, and sadly it seems in the places that need it most.

"They are just about managing to fund the basic day to day caring.

"So I’ve decided to try and, without sounding cheesy, spread the light by brightening up centres that couldn’t afford to do it otherwise."

Miss Jones is preparing for her first task with the new scheme, which she has called Project Light and Bright, for Harpenden Mencap.

She has more ideas in the pipeline but is still keen for other organisations who want her help to get in touch.

She added: "People have been absolutely over the moon.

"At first they are looking for the catch but they are really enthusiastic."

Anyone who would like to get involved in the project, or knows a centre that could do with Miss Jones’ idea, should visit her Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/events/108135462703792/