#PortraitsForNHSHeroes: Sawbridgeworth artist Sarah Harvey draws inspiration from friend and St Clare Hospice nursing assistant Sarah Lord

An artist who has turned her focus onto the healthcare heroes earning the praise and gratitude of the whole country chose a St Clare Hospice nursing assistant as her first subject.

Sarah Harvey, of Sawbridgeworth, was inspired to join the #PortraitsForNHSHeroes project launched by artist Tom Croft which has led to 500 artists giving free portraits to front-line workers around the world.

“When I saw the campaign I knew it was something I wanted to get behind,” said Sarah, who since 2000 has specialised in painting figures underwater but loves drawing too.

“As a painter by profession, my talent lies in the skills of my hands and I had been trying to think of a way I could make a difference. When I saw Tom Croft’s project, I felt compelled to jump on board too.

“I am truly grateful to all healthcare and key workers who are putting their lives at risk every day to save others. This is my way of giving them some truly deserved recognition and trying to show my sincere thanks to them for all they are doing.”

Sarah chose her friend and fellow Sawbridgeworth resident Sarah Lord, a nursing assistant with St Clare’s Hospice at Home service, which provides specialist hands-on personal care in homes to patients approaching the end of life, or when families need additional support.

Artist Sarah said: “I know how hard she’s working during this pandemic and am in awe of what she does, day in and day out.

“I’ve drawn a pencil sketch of Sarah from a photo of her taken after a long night shift caring for patients in their own homes. The work of St Clare Hospice is invaluable, and this is my way of thanking them for all they continue to do – caring for people on the front line.”

Subject Sarah, 41, is married to Stacy and has eight-year-old twin boys, Milo and Tyler. The former art school student was delighted with the artwork.

“It’s beautifully rendered, effortlessly capturing detail and contrast,” she said. “Not every artist can capture the spirit of their subject – such a rare talent.”

Sarah studied fine art at university in Newcastle and also at London's Chelsea College of Art and Design.

To see more of Sarah's work you can visit her website or follow her on Instagram at @sarahharveyinsta.