A Warrington comedian with muscular dystrophy has teamed with up a talented photographer, who has launched an online exhibition of his work.
Reflections In Colour is a collection of 50 photographs with in depth commentary and insight from people suffering from muscular dystrophy.
The collection by Chris Howard, which is available to view virtually, is aimed at raising awareness of the condition.
Andy Duffy from Westbrook is a keen mimic and trained actor having studied comedy writing and performance alongside acting for camera.
He was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at the age of four, when he found running difficult and he began to use a powered wheelchair when he was 12.
Andy, who is now 28, cannot walk or stand independently and has carers to help with his personal needs.
He has a positive, can-do attitude on life and since graduating, he has performed in theatres in the north west and at The Edinburgh Fringe.
He also loves singing in choirs and dancing with several inclusive companies.
The photograph Andy chose as his favourite in the Reflections In Colour exhibition is Running Man, as he feels he can identify with the lone man as he runs along the River Thames.
Andy said: “There he is, under the watchful eyes of the streetlamp.
“It’s like me - wherever I go I am watched or at least I feel that way.
“Eyes watch me because I am in a wheelchair and it’s like my own performance.
“I can’t pass unnoticed even though sometimes I may want to - eyes are everywhere.”
Andy said he was drawn to the sky with its mix of darkness and light, highlighting the light and shade and life’s difficult moments.
Andy said: “There’s always light at the end of the tunnel and light after the darkness.
“At this time of Covid-19, there’s been darkness but light will follow.
“I like to travel in my Powerchair along the Thames, especially the Southbank because I can get away from others if they can’t keep up with me.
“I call it running as I can get up a speed and, in the photo, he is alone and challenging himself.
“That’s how I feel sometimes - life is full of challenges.”
He added: “After his run, I think he will feel invigorated - I feel invigorated when I challenge myself.
“I carry on, although night falls, the lights guide us until we reach our destination.”
Retired director of photography Chris has worked in film and television all over the world, with credits from film classics like North Sea Hijack and International Velvet and television shows such as Minder, Peak Practice and Soldier Soldier.
The idea for the exhibition was born after Chris organised the Kent Castle Walk four ago in aid of Muscular Dystrophy UK.
Chris said: “When I met Andy, his enthusiasm and energy made everything possible and we have remained good friends.“ Louise Moffat, MDUK regional development manager for London, South East and East England, said: “I am filled with admiration for the work Andy and Chris have done to create this extensive exhibition.
“The power in their friendship is fantastic and the images are completely unique.
“I can’t decide which I would chose to hang on my wall.”
For more information and to see all of the photographs in the exhibition, visit https://www.crispandsharp.co.uk/pot-of-tree-campaign
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