An artist from Cornwall has incorporated her friend’s ashes into a specially created painting after he died in a motorbike accident at the age of just 22.
Mollie Hughes used the cremated remains of Will Charman to produce a coastal scene drawing inspiration from a vista he cherished.
Will tragically passed away on April 28, 2023, on his way back from his work, mere minutes away from reaching his home in Falmouth. Family paid tribute to his “magnetic personality” and an inquest in 2024 heard he lost control of his Yamaha motorbike when he came across unexpected gravel on the road. Read that full story here.
Mollie, aged 35 and working as a professional artist in Falmouth, explained that the concept occurred to her unexpectedly while contemplating how best to commemorate him.
“I was creating abstract seascapes before but wanted to create something for Will’s family to signify him as he loved sunsets,” she said. “Then I had a light-bulb moment where I thought, ‘I could add his ashes into this’.”
She collaborated with Will’s sibling, Mike, who discreetly supplied a portion of the ashes without informing their parents, ensuring the completed artwork would serve as a surprise.
Mollie described the experience of working with the ashes as deeply moving.
“I had to take a little breather when I had the ashes as it was such a surreal moment,” she said. “I felt sadness but also warmth knowing I was creating something that could bring comfort.”
The artwork draws upon a sunset scene Will had captured on film while travelling along the coastal road.
His mother, Nicky Charman, said that the completed piece “took my breath away”.
“Our darling beautiful son, Wills, had the biggest heart and smile,” she said.
“At just 22, he was a strong, tall protector whilst also being the warmest and most humble boy who would do anything for anyone.
“He was so proud of his siblings and always said he ‘has the best parents that brought him up right’.”
She explained that Will had been making his way home when the collision occurred.
“He took a video of the beautiful view before driving home to have his dinner,” she said. “Despite only being down the road, he didn’t make it back to us.
“I will always wait for him to walk through our garden gate but until then, we will love him with all that we are.”
The piece of art now has pride of place in the family’s home.
“Receiving this beautiful painting absolutely took my breath away,” Nicky added. “It references a photo that Will took himself – he loved how the sun set over the bay.
“I think it is the most endearing and personal act of love.
“Every time I look at it, I imagine he really is there living his best life in another dimension.”
Mollie continues to produce similar works for bereaved families across the globe.
“Every piece I create really does hit me,” she said.
“But knowing I’m bringing comfort to families going through the hardest thing in their lives is my biggest achievement.”
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