Supporter of the week: Kurt and Caroline Jackson

Hannah Booth

18 August 2011

To celebrate Friends of the Earth's 40th anniversary, I've been talking to some of the supporters who've made it all possible. Kurt Jackson (pictured right with his wife Caroline) is an artist inspired by the wild beauty of unspoilt Cornwall.

"Almost all my work is influenced by my interest in the environment, particularly the one around me, in Cornwall.

"I paint plants, animals, landscapes, habitats, even people who are closely connected with nature, such as farmers, fishermen and travellers.

This is our way - my wife Caroline and I - of helping environmental causes: through exhibitions, donations and interviews.

"Sadly we don't have time to go on demos or do direct action. She's my manager, PR, PA and general decision-maker.

"The natural world is still very intact in Cornwall. Hedgerows are full of wild flowers, and we're on the frontline against the elements.

"There's a lot of wind, which is great for renewables. And sun - we have solar panels, and our house is carbon neutral.

"Geographically, we're on the margins, but I wouldn't have it any other way."

Kurt has supported Friends of the Earth for many years by donating proceeds from his art. Why not use your talents or passions to fundraise for Friends of the Earth? And if you're inspired by Kurt's carbon-neutral lifestyle, download Feed-in tariffs and the renewable heat incentive for advice on how you can do the same.

Next week: Nathalie Lieven. To see all the supporters I've interviewed, visit our 40th anniversary gallery. Hannah Booth also writes Lives Less Ordinary.