Paul Vienneau helps raise nearly $9K for artists with disabilities
Vienneau gained attention after people saw him chipping away at the ice in his wheelchair this winter
A fundraiser in Halifax last night to raise money for artists with disabilities was a success.
It was organized by a man who was spotted around the city this winter shoveling snow from his wheelchair.
Paul Vienneau has been planning the fundraising variety show for months.
Vienneau gained attention and affectionally became known as the "asshole with the shovel" after people saw him chipping away at the ice this past winter, but his old wheelchair took a beating.
A few months ago, the photographer got a new wheelchair after people crowdfunded for him.
"I wanted to pass on the kindness and establish a fund to give grants to artists with disabilities and also to connect them with mentors," said Vienneau.
The event raised $3,200 -- an amount matched by Scotiabank. Those amounts, combined with the $2,400 raised before the event means a total of $8,800 was raised.
"There's lots of funding for sports equipment for people with disabilities, as if that's the only way to be yourself," said Vienneau.
"But for me I find my place in the universe by doing art -- whether it's seriously stuff I show people or just messing around at home. So I wanted to pass on an opportunity for other people with disabilities to enjoy that as well."
Vienneau's friends say they are impressed
"It's absolutely incredible what he has done with that simple act in just being positive and going out and trying to make a difference," said Polly Rhuland.
"I think the event is great and I'm so happy he's taken this activist role. It just seems to be getting a really good response," said friend and performer Kristin Langille.
Vienneau's next step will be figuring out how to get the grants to the artists.