ARTIST’S BLM ART IS PICTURE PERFECT FOR LABOUR LEADER SIR KEIR’S OFFICE
Drawing of anti-racism symbol on display in Westminster
An anti- racism drawing created by a Lochwinnoch artist is on display in Westminster after being auctioned off to raise funds for the Black Lives Matter movement.
The illustration by Kieran MacKenzie, 20, is now hanging in the London office of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer after being sold to an anonymous bidder for £600.
Talented Kieran created the black and white artwork in a bid to raise awareness and funds in the fight against racism.
The cash raised in the auction has been divided between various campaigns and protesters’ bail funds across America, and to both the Black Lives Matter Global Network and CRER ( Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights) - a Glasgow racial justice charity.
The artwork made its way to the Houses of Parliament after the winning bidder contacted Councillor Paul O’Kane, Scottish Labour candidate for Renfrewshire
South.
They told Councillor O’Kane they felt the artwork was too important just to remain in their house and asked him to reach out to people in his network and have it displayed in the political headquarters.
Councillor O’Kane was delighted when the Labour leader proudly accepted to hang it in his own office.
He said: “As Scottish Labour’s candidate for Renfrewshire South, I was delighted to be able to help the anonymous donor pass Kieran’s artwork to Keir.
“He was pleased to receive it and I know it will have an important place in his office.
“It is great to think that a young local artist from Lochwinnoch has not only raised awareness and money to support the fight against racism, but his work is now hanging in such an important office in the House of Commons where I am sure it will encourage and inspire all who see it.”
He added: “Keir Starmer is no stranger to Renfrewshire South of course, having campaigned with me in 2016 as a Shadow Minister.
“I look forward to welcoming him back as leader of the opposition in the future and hopefully he will have a chance to meet Kieran and
chat about his work.”
Keir Starmer was pleased to receive it and I know it will have an important place in his office