Ron Arad and Maurice Ostro on Primrose Hill making the sign for ‘Smile’ in British Sign Language
A series of face coverings with uplifting designs by acclaimed artist Ron Arad RA have been released for for the “Smile for our Carers” campaign to raise funds for frontline workers. They are available to buy on Amazon.
The face coverings, which include designs inspired by famous historical figures and pieces of art, were worn by frontline workers and celebrities including Stephen Fry, Jason Isaacs and Natasha Kaplinsky.
Ron Arad RA said:
“I wanted to do something to use the power of art to help in this terrible crisis. We all have a duty to use our creativity, resources and compassion however we can. Hopefully this project will support our wonderful carers, as well as provide some cheer and amusement.”
Profits from every face covering (at least £1 per face covering) will go to support carers and other frontline workers in the fight against COVID-19. The project is a collaboration between Ron Arad Studio and the Ostro Fayre Share Foundation. This first series of face coverings includes designs inspired by the smiles of famous figures including Albert Einstein, Winston Churchill, Florence Nightingale, and the art of Matisse. Besides the benefits of limiting harm from coughs and sneezes, and reducing the instances of people touching their faces, the primary benefit of these non-medical face coverings is to others. The designs turn them from something impersonal and frightening into coverings that will make people smile.
Crucially, the project uses a manufacturer who was not supplying PPE to frontline workers, to ensure there is no diversion from valuable NHS supplies.
Maurice Ostro OBE, Chair of the Ostro Fayre Share Foundation, said:
“At challenging times, we rely on the support of friends, family and our communities more than ever. When people are fearful of leaving their homes and connecting safely with one other, then our mental health, our social ties and our economy will suffer. Wearing joyful face coverings is a simple and affordable way to protect each other, boosts spirits and strengthen our society.”
A special Instagram filter has been developed to support the launch of the campaign, which allows users to ‘model’ the face coverings. The filter is available here.
Further information is at smile4ourcarers.co.uk
BUY HERE: amazon.co.uk/smile+for+our+carers
