Article date – 13 November 2018
At 81 years-old, Jonathan Griffith is looking back at his journey into painting and drawing, his experience of living with a disability, and the changing attitudes towards disability throughout his life.
Jonathan has always been determined to remain independent. At 33 in the early 1970s, Jonathan left home and rented a tiny bedsit, where he was helped by friends to make special furniture that would enable him to be self-sufficient.
Here, Jonathan developed his artistic skills in his spare time over many years. A retrospective exhibition at the Unity Theatre, Liverpool (1 November – 1 December), featuring his many perspectives of the city, charts Jonathan’s work as his style evolved and as he gradually lost the mobility that allowed him to paint.
Councillor Anthony Burns, portfolio holder for libraries, said: “Jonathan’s story grants us unique insight into living with a disability – how it can affect lives and aspirations – but ultimately shows how resilient people can be when facing hardship. I think that’s the kind of story everyone should hear. Please come along for this frank talk about disability and art at Chester Lane Library.”
Join Jonathan for this event at Chester Lane Library on Thursday 22 November, 7pm-8pm.
An Audience with Jonathan Griffith is a BSL (British Sign Language) signed event.
The event is free to attend, but booking is advised. Book online at www.culturalhubs.eventbrite.co.uk – where you can find the full line-up of amazing
Cultural Hubs events – or call into any St Helens Library to reserve your place. Alternatively, call 01744 677446 to book and find out more.
Cultural Hubs is funded by Arts Council England and delivered by St Helens Council’s Library Service, which is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.
More information about DaDaFest International www.dadafest.co.uk
