It gives me great pleasure in using my art work to inspire childrens imagination to be active and colourful just like the bright colours on my palette! I believe if we teach our children to be positive we can then prevent them from trying drugs later on in life.

Chihuahua, Siamese cat, guinea pig or goldfish…. make your favourite pet famous by drawing a picture and entering it in Action on Addiction’s exciting new art competition. The ‘art from the heart’ competition organised by artist Cindy Lass in association with the charity begins September 2005. Cindy Lass says: “I believe that art can tap into children’s colourful hopes and dreams and inspire them to be creative and happy. It is a great way for youngsters to channel energy and time in a positive way and avoid some of the pressures that modern society puts on them.”

Children can show off their own artistic talent by painting their favourite animals on a restaurant tablemat that can be found in Ask restaurants around the UK. You can also download one by clicking hereand send it in to us at: Action on Addiction, Park Place, 12 Lawn Lane, London, SW8 1UD. Before you enter please read the competition rules. The competition winner will be announced on 26th March 2006.

Regional finalists will be invited to a painting experience with Cindy Lass, and the winner’s design will be displayed at Cindy’s Art Auction in aid of Action on Addiction, Which takes place in March. Ask will also feature the winning design on their takeaway pizza boxes across the UK.

The competition has been inspired by Cindy Lass’s Celebrity Pawtraits Collection, which includes images of Gerri Halliwell’s Shih-Tzu and George Michael’s Labrador. For several years Cindy Lass has painted pets for charity. As one of London’s most popular untrained figurative artists Cindy is known for her vibrant, bold use of colour and the captivating energy which flows from every canvas. Action on Addiction would like to thank ASK for their generous support. Every time someone orders a Fiorentina pizza ASK will donate 25p to our cause, so make sure you go out and get one. To find your nearest ASK branch visit www.askcentral.co.uk

Action on Addiction is the only independent UK research charity dedicated to seeking new ways to prevent and treat drug, alcohol and nicotine addiction. For more information, please visit Action on Addiction website at: www.aona.co.uk

Celebrity Pawtraits Competition in ASK Restaurant