Portsmouth street artist Fark spreads message of love as he joins The News' campaign to support QA Hospital

Those are the words of Portsmouth artist Fark, who has joined The News’ latest campaign to make people smile.

His art, featured on today’s front page, is part of a fundraising initiative for Queen Alexandra Hospital in Cosham.

The stencil and spray paint design, complete with Fark’s trademark seagull, will be auctioned off and the money raised given to The News’ Help Our QA Heroes fund.

Fark says he has been inspired by his friends in the NHS, and their dedication towards the coronavirus effort.

‘I’m just an artist, living in my own little bubble,' he said.

‘Meanwhile I have friends in the NHS working these hardcore 12-hour shifts, they’re incredible.

SEE ALSO: News campaign to help QA Hospital calls on artists to brighten life during coronavirus lockdown

‘By doing this I’m able to share the love I have for frontline workers and also contribute something positive.’

The Help Our QA Heroes fund has raised more than £22,000 so far for Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust staff who are working around the clock in difficult circumstances.

Fark got into street art during the 1990s, and has been passionate about making people ever since.

The rainbows that have been put up in windows across the city – also showing support for the NHS – is something that has touched him.

He said: ‘Children have been amazing in this pandemic and we can really learn a lot from them.

‘I love seeing all their artwork in the windows when I’m out, it’s great.

‘I would like to think that this artwork is a nod to both the NHS, and everyone else that is doing their bit at the moment.’

Fark's message of spreading love wherever you go was born from the kindness being shown in Portsmouth during lockdown.

It comes after fellow artist My Dog Sighs kicked off the campaign last week.

He said: ‘The way we’re treating each other now is how it should stay.

‘Everyone is much more friendly, we’re caring about one another and caring about Mother Nature – and look how she’s responded.

‘The trees are greener than ever and I’ve never seen the water so clear.’

To get involved in the campaign, or to put in a bid, email [email protected].

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