In a heartfelt act of generosity, Kent-based surrealist artist Carl Stafford has made the profound decision to bequeath his entire collection of paintings to Pilgrims Hospices through his will. This significant legacy pledge will create a lasting source of support for the charity's vital end-of-life care services across east Kent.
A Personal Inspiration Behind the Pledge
The 61-year-old artist, a father of two and grandfather of five, was moved to make this commitment following a deeply personal experience. Many years ago, Carl's father received care from a hospice, an experience that left an indelible mark on him.
"The care was just exemplary," Carl recalled, speaking in his gentle Brummy accent. "Nothing was too much trouble, and they made the end of his life comfortable and free from pain. They even organised a wedding for him and his long-term partner, which made the end of his life so special for him and those closest to him."
He described how this compassionate treatment sparked a realisation about the importance of supporting such special places. "That sparked something within me that made me realise supporting special places such as hospices was really important. This is hospice care at its very best."
An Artistic Legacy Full of Expression
Visiting Carl at his gallery-style home in Ramsgate reveals walls alive with vibrant colour and surrealist imagination. His work, influenced by masters like Salvador Dalí, René Magritte and Max Ernst, is characterised by dreamlike imagery and profound expression.
Through his legacy, Carl hopes his creative life's work will help future generations experience the same compassion, dignity and support that meant so much to his family. "I'm a very positive person, and by making this legacy, I hope it will help many people in the future to take comfort and support from Pilgrims Hospices," he explained.
His artistic inspiration comes not only from surrealist pioneers but also from his own family. "I've always been inspired by my father, who was a very fine artist. I still treasure a painting he created for me back in the 1970s. I take great pleasure in the thought that my own work will live on and continue to make a difference."
Local Connections and Community Impact
Carl also draws creative energy from his local area. Living close to where Vincent Van Gogh once stayed and worked in Ramsgate gives him a special connection to art history and his community. His bequest will help protect the future of hospice care in east Kent for generations to come.
Pilgrims Hospices provides an essential service, caring for an estimated 30% of the people who die in east Kent each year. The charity offers free, specialist end-of-life care through its inpatient units in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford, as well as providing support in people's own homes.
Ellie Cane from Pilgrims Hospices expressed the charity's gratitude: "We're so grateful to Carl for his incredible generosity. Every gift in a will, large or small, helps us to be there for patients and families when they need us most."
This story highlights how personal experiences can inspire remarkable acts of giving, creating legacies that extend far beyond an individual's lifetime to support compassionate community care.
