An eccentric Kingston artist who died suddenly last year is to have his work exhibited in a major Brighton arts festival to mark what would have been his 50th birthday.
Rik Snowley, who grew up in the borough and attended Hollyfield School in Surbiton, only found his passion for art and photography after being made redundant when he was 29.
The popular artist learned his new trade at the North East Surrey College of Technology, sitting and passing all his exams in a tiger suit before moving on to teach photography across London and Surrey.
He was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2007 and underwent intense chemotherapy and radiotherapy before receiving a successful bone marrow transplant from an anonymous donor, but died in January 2008 after contracting pneumonia.
Mr Snowley’s photographs, prints and artwork will be on display between May 1 and May 15 as part of the free Brighton Festival, with profits from sales going towards a trust fund to support cancer charities.
Anyone interested in more information should phone 07793 818803, or email riksnowley.foundation@hotmail.co.uk
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