Illuminated glass artwork has provided an unexpected light at the end of a dark tunnel for Sandown resident Mo, reinforcing that it is never too late.
Mo Fraser, a passionate and full-of-life pensioner, has started her own business painting vases, glasses, jars and bottles at the fine age of 91, after she rediscovered her artistic mojo following a fall that would leave many her age bed-bound.
In April 2024, Mo took a bad fall in her favourite place, her summer home at Fairway Holiday Park, Sandown. Equipped with a broken femur as a result, Mo had to leave her beloved caravan and husband of 71 years, Ken, whilst she took a recovery staycation at Victoria House Care Home in Ryde.
It was here that Mo, an active, young-spirited woman, found solace in her artwork and reignited her mojo for art after years without touching a paintbrush.
Mo’s daughter, Tina Fraser, said:
“The staff at the care home were beyond supportive and really allowed mum to use the time to find new ways to keep her busy and keep healing.
“Mum would always tell other residents that if they don’t get up and do something, they will die.
“Art has kept her going.”
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After 6 months at the care home, Mo returned home to her husband Ken, a whiskey lover, who had gotten through a few bottles in her absence.
Instead of throwing the empty bottles in the bin, Mo decided she would continue her new-found form of healing and much-loved past-time at home with the help of her carer and occupational therapist, Patti who loves and encourages Mo’s artistic flair everyday.
The rest is history, Mo has been crafting beautiful Island souvenirs and gifts ever since, sending her daughter to charity shops far and wide looking for new pieces of glass to paint.
Mo said:
“I’m old but I’ll never give up.”
With a portion of her proceeds being donated to Mountbatten Hospice, her crafts are currently being sold at the Holliers Tunnel Market in Sandown with prices ranging from £5-10.
Mo has said her husband Ken has been unable to keep up with demand and so would like to give special thanks to the Propeller Inn in Bembridge and the Squirrels Rest in Fairway Holiday Park for donating their glass waste to her.
If any kind businesses would like to do the same, she would be very appreciative.
To get in touch with Mo please contact Island Echo.
Thank you for featuring my Nana she’s always been and continues to be an amazing woman