Suffolk artist Andrew Haslen finds inspiration after Parkinson’s diagnosis

Andrew Haslen, a 70-year-old artist from Lavenham, Suffolk, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2014, which significantly impacted his artistic practice. Initially, he faced challenges with his right hand, making it difficult to write and paint. In response, he adapted by learning to use his left hand, but the tremors eventually affected that hand as well. Despite these difficulties, he has continued to create art, driven by a sense of urgency regarding his future as an artist. To secure his future, Haslen shifted his focus from painting to sculpting, allowing him to produce additional work that could be sold. He has been working diligently, often seven days a week, to create both paintings and sculptures. His determination stems from the uncertainty of his condition, as he is aware that his ability to create may diminish over time. In October, several of Haslen's pieces were showcased at the Society of Wildlife Artists' annual exhibition in London, highlighting his evolution as an artist. He began his artistic journey by painting for personal enjoyment, which later transitioned into a career as a leading wildlife artist in the UK. His work has been recognized since he became a member of the Society of Wildlife Artists in 1988. Haslen's experience with Parkinson's has not only influenced his artistic output but also shaped his perspective on life and creativity. He finds that sculpting allows him to manage mistakes more easily, and he is committed to producing as much work as possible while he still can, ensuring a legacy for himself and his art.