Eric Fawley, a 94-year-old resident at Greenbanks Care Home, part of the Runwood Homes Group, showcased his artistic talent at an exhibition held at the Houses of Parliament.
Over 100 Members of Parliament will have the opportunity to view the exhibition as they make their way through the committee corridor to the parliamentary chambers and meeting rooms. Spanning more than 50 years, Eric’s artwork captures moments from throughout his life, from his experiences during the Second World War to more recent drawings of his home at Greenbanks.
Reflecting on his lifelong passion for art, Eric recalled how he could “always draw and as a child you become part of that world.” From a young age, he would use whatever materials he could find around the house to bring his drawings to life. For Eric, drawing has always been “a means of reliving life as it really is.”
Eric’s fascinating life story extends far beyond his artistic talents. As a young man, he served in the Royal Air Force (RAF), completed two years of National Service, then extended his service for three more years. During his time in the RAF, Eric was also selected for guard duty at Buckingham Palace.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sarah Sanders, Business Development Director at Runwood Homes, delivered a speech highlighting how events like these “show what can happen when care teams, families and the wider community come together to support an individual’s passions.” She added that “Eric’s exhibition powerfully reminds us why creativity and person-led care belong at the heart of everything we do” at Runwood Homes.
The MP for Watford also spoke at the ceremony, praising Greenbanks Care Home as “such a fantastic place” that creates “such a wonderful and embracing atmosphere for the residents who are there.” Expressing appreciation for Eric’s artistic achievements, the MP added, “Thanks to Eric for the artwork that we are all going to enjoy,” before sharing that “everyone has been commenting on the quality of the work and how incredible it is.”
After the exhibition at Parliament, Eric enjoyed a traditional afternoon tea in the House of Lords, complete with scones and sweet treats, to round off the memorable day.
At Greenbanks Care Home, supporting residents to maintain their interests and celebrate their individuality is central to everyday life. Eric’s visit to Parliament is a wonderful example of how personal passions can continue to flourish in later life.
