Rockingham artist Ethan Ford defies challenges brought on by disability to put on May 31 art show

Ethan Ford, a remarkable young Rockingham man nearing 21, is defying all challenges and committed to making art.

Ethan has cerebral palsy, a severe seizure disorder and a rare genetic condition known as fumarase deficiency, which means his journey to adulthood hasn’t been easy.

But his passion for art transcends any physical and intellectual limitations and offers a unique perspective.

Ethan is primarily non-verbal and his mum Ashlie says he communicates through his vibrant paintings, which he creates daily with “immense pride”.

Ashlie said Ethan would exhibit and sell his artwork at an upcoming show made possible through the generosity of the Baldivis and Rockingham community.

“They generously provided canvases for his work when we put out a call on one of the local Facebook pages,” Ashlie said.

“We were overwhelmed by the response that we got with the community rallying behind us and we would love a chance to show them how hard he has worked, what he has created and to say a huge thank you.”

Ashlie said creating art had been a lifelong passion for Ethan.

“He was always painting and gifting the paintings to different family members,” she said.

“Ethan loves his family. Even now when he is doing a painting he’ll say it’s for Nan or for Daddy and so on.”

Exhibit attendees can expect a showcase of Ethan’s paintings accompanied by bubbles and nibbles on May 31 at 6pm at the Gary Holland Centre in Rockingham.

Proceeds from the event will not only support Ethan’s future art endeavours but fuel his passion for McDonald’s, where he plans to invest in lots of burgers.