The Art of being Anna

Deanna and I decided back in 2020 that we wanted to explore our artistic side. We also decided that we weren’t confident or interesting enough to use our own names, and so Anna Hardy and Sven Christensen were born.

Sadly, following a long illness, Deanna slipped away from us in late August 2024, leaving a void in the hearts and lives of so many, and she will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to share in her life.

Art was one of Deanna’s passions, she was an exceptionally creative person, with a real eye for colour, composition and aesthetic. For many years she sewed and crafted a myriad beautiful gifts which she delighted in giving to those she loved, purely for the pleasure of seeing them smile.

It’s so sad to think that Deanna will no longer be able to delight us with new creations to enjoy, but she would want to try to bring some beauty, joy, and benefit to the world through her portfolio of Art. In the coming months, Deanna’s Artworks will be shared here for the enjoyment of all, and, for those who would like to own one of these limited edition pieces, they will be offered on canvas, with 100% of the profits going to support the work of the British Heart Foundation.

The last five of the 13 years that Deanna and I were together were a gift bestowed on us by the work of the Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, and by the cutting edge research carried out by the British Heart Foundation. The appeal for donations in memory of Deanna, for the British Heart Foundation, has already garnered more than £1,000 and we hope to be able to support their vital work with yet more fund-raising in the future, to enable them to give more people the gift of time with those they love. Should you wish to donate directly, Deanna’s fund-raising page can be found here.

Deanna was not only the greatest love of my life, she was my muse, my biggest supporter, a much cherished blessing, and my soulmate. She encouraged, coached and mentored me, even in my rather less successful artistic efforts, and pushed me to be better, to be more creative and daring, and inspired me to occassional success. In honour of Deanna’s unconditional love, kindness and support, I also offer some of the art which Deanna’s love, influence, patience, and talent made possible.