Cornish Artists Auction Belly Boards to Support Cornwall Hospice Care

A unique fundraising effort, Where Art Meets the Wave, has seen over 40 Cornish artists transform handcrafted wooden belly boards into one-of-a-kind artworks. The project, launched by Crantock resident and long-time fundraiser Sue Dennett, is raising vital funds for Cornwall Hospice Care.

The boards were designed and cut by Fyne Boat Kits of Kendal and expertly finished by Surf Classic Boards before becoming canvases for artists to showcase their creativity. Well-known names such as Michael Praed, Kurt Jackson, Dick Twinney, Anthony Frost and Steven Camps are among those who have taken part.

Sue explained:

“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. We’ve had everyone from passionate hobbyists to established names… 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.”

Funds for St Austell and Hayle Hospices

Money raised will support Mount Edgcumbe Hospice in St Austell and St Julia’s Hospice in Hayle. At Mount Edgcumbe, funds will go towards modernising facilities, including two new critical end-of-life care beds, the first of their kind in Cornwall.

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.”

Online Auction and Final Exhibition

The boards are being auctioned online via David Lay Auctions, with bidding already open and closing at 8pm on Thursday 25th September. The total raised will be announced shortly afterwards.

Before the auction ends, all artworks will be displayed together in a final celebratory exhibition at St Michael’s Church, Newquay, also on 25th September.

Throughout July, August and September, the belly boards have also been on show across Cornwall, thanks to the support of venues countywide.

Backed by Local Support

The project has been made possible through the sponsorship of Rodda’s Creamery, which provided materials, and the craftsmanship of Fyne Boat Kits and Surf Classic Boards, who prepared each board. Lay’s Auctioneers of Penzance are also supporting the auction.

For more details, including the full list of participating artists and venues, visit Where Art Meets the Wave