A fundraiser is being planned to assist Braidwood artists Suzie Bleach and Andy Townsend after their studio was destroyed in a fire on August 25.

The studio had been used by the couple for the past 25 years and they lost their tools, documentation of their history as artists as well as two large works in progress. The large works were commissions and were managed to be salvaged however the couple need to finish them.

After hearing the news, the community in Braidwood and Canberra have rallied around the couple who have been long contributors to their local community and the art community generally. They have a strong connection with the ANU School of Art with Andy and their son Harry being alumni of the School and their daughter Rose, a current student. They have been very supportive of the School and the Sculpture workshop and their sculptures can be seen across Canberra.

The ANU School of Art has offered Andy and Suzie a residency in the Sculpture workshop so that they can continue working on their large commissions. View the visiting artist profile of Suzie Bleach and Andy Townsend.

A fundraiser is being held at Alternburg and Co Gallery in Braidwood at 4pm on Saturday October 5. It is appropriately called the Phoenix Party. To donate or RSVP email thephoenixfund@gmail.com