The life of well-known Kent artist John Ward will be celebrated at a special event at Canterbury Cathedral on the evening of Friday 6 May. Mr Ward, who died in 2007, was a prolific painter, draughtsman, illustrator and teacher...

The life of well-known Kent artist John Ward will be celebrated at a special event at Canterbury Cathedral on the evening of Friday 6 May. Mr Ward, who died in 2007, was a prolific painter, draughtsman, illustrator and teacher. He was elected to the Royal Academy in 1956 and appointed CBE in 1985.

The idea was originated by John's long-time friend and neighbour the TV journalist Mike Field. With three of John's sons, William, George and Toby, Mike will chair an intimate question and answer session shedding light on a brilliant and complex artist. John's eldest son William has curated a special exhibition which will be on display including unseen drawings, sketches and letters illustrating his rich and varied life.

During the evening the veil will be lifted on lesser-known aspects of the artist's life, including his friendship with members of the Royal Family, his experiences at the D-Day landings and his controversial resignation from the Royal Academy. Also taking part will be the musician Mark Deller, who will share memories of John Ward's life-long friendship with his father, the famous counter-tenor, Alfred Deller, and the impact they made on the arts scene, nationally and locally.

The evening will include an opportunity to buy one of a newly issued limited edition print of Canterbury Cathedral. The first numbered print is being raffled on behalf of the Cathedral, with tickets costing �5 each.

All proceeds are being donated to the Canterbury Gift, the charity that supports conservation, education, music and craftsmanship at Canterbury Cathedral.

“John Ward RA, Reflections on a life” will take place at the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge at 6.30pm on Friday 6 May. Tickets including a glass of wine and canapes, costing �15 or �10, as well as raffle tickets, are available from The Canterbury Gift Office, at 27-28 Burgate, Canterbury, or by calling 01227 865346, or by e-mailing info@thecanterburygift.com

The event will be preceded by a Champagne Reception and Private View of the exhibition of the artist’s work. Tickets for the private view cost �25.