Cornish Artists Decorate Belly Boards to Raise Funds for Cornwall Hospice Care

Over 40 Cornish artists unite for hospice fundraiser that rides the wave of creativity

Cornwall’s artistic community has come together this summer for Where Art Meets The Wave, a unique art campaign raising vital funds for Cornwall Hospice Care.

More than 40 artists have each transformed a handcrafted wooden belly board into a one-of-a-kind artwork, with all proceeds going towards the specialist care provided at Mount Edgcumbe Hospice in St Austell and St Julia’s Hospice in Hayle.

From surfboard to canvas

The boards were designed and cut by Fyne Boat Kits of Kendal and expertly finished by Surf Classic Boards. Each was then handed over to an artist to turn into something special.

“We reached out to our local community of artists to ask if they would take one of our belly boards to transform, and the response has been overwhelming,” said project organiser and long-time fundraiser Sue Dennett.

“We’ve had everyone from passionate hobbyists to established names like Michael Praed, Kurt Jackson, Dick Twinney, Anthony Frost, and Steven Camps wanting to get involved. Like our previous project, 38 Churns, this is all about harnessing creativity and community to support the remarkable work Cornwall Hospice Care delivers every day.”

📷Where Art Meets The Wave - Paul Foreman

Summer exhibitions across Cornwall

Thanks to the support of venues across the county, the completed boards will be exhibited throughout July, August and September, giving both locals and visitors the chance to see the full collection.

A full list of venues and featured artists is available at www.whereartmeetsthewave.co.uk.

Bid for a one-of-a-kind piece

The public also has the chance to own one of the boards through an online auction hosted by Lay’s Auctioneers of Penzance. Bidding is now open and will close at 8pm on Thursday 25th September, coinciding with a final celebratory exhibition of the full collection at St Michael’s Church in Newquay.

The total amount raised will be announced shortly after the auction closes.

📷Where Art Meets The Wave - Kurt Jackson

Community and craftsmanship behind the boards

The project was made possible through the support of Rodda’s Creamery, who sponsored the materials, as well as Fyne Boat Kits and Surf Classic Boards for their skilled preparation of each board. Lay’s Auctioneers have also played a key role in bringing the auction to life.

Sue added:
“Every belly board in this project represents more than just art – it reflects Cornwall’s surf heritage, our vibrant artistic culture, and a shared commitment to providing compassionate hospice care when it’s needed most. We’re incredibly grateful to all our artists, sponsors, and partners who have made this possible.”

For more information, to view the exhibition details or to place a bid, visit www.whereartmeetsthewave.co.uk or follow the project on Facebook and Instagram by searching Where Art Meets The Wave.

📷Where Art Meets The Wave - Leana Robinson The Calm Beneath