Biography     David Arathoon has achieved national success with numerous solo and group exhibitions in many private and public galleries, such as the Hummingbird Center for the Performing Arts, Toronto. His colourful paintings, recently described as "EXUBERANT" by Chatelaine Magazine (Nov 2000,) are in numerous corporate and private collections in Canada, USA, Australia, Hong Kong and other countries. The important Yorkville dealer, Odon Wagner Gallery, has exhibited his work in their Yorkville gallery in Toronto as well as in Miami and Hong Kong. Mr. Arathoon has been instrumental in successful fundraising efforts with his original art and limited edition prints. His prints have raised over $100,000 for various charities such as the National Ballet of Canada with the original print, Waltz of the Flowers, unveiled by former Mayor Barbara Hall, and Honorary Chairs Vanessa Harwood and Reed Anderson. Other organizations that have benefited include, The Junior League of Toronto, Metro Central YMCA, Junior Achievement of Toronto, Casey House and Trinity Home Hospice. David Arathoon is the founder of the successful and popular annual fundraiser: MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE, which has raised nearly one million dollars for the terminally ill Home Hospice Care Programs. A creative committee and the generosity of international celebrities have kept the event unique. Karen Kain was the first Honorary Chair, followed by Douglas Fairbanks Jr. and Ali McGraw. His paintings are included in many homes and public locations. Some corporate collections include: Toronto's Market Gallery, Holiday Inn, Toronto (at King and John Sts.), Movenpick Restaurants, Board of Trade, Humber College (9 paintings), Sunnybrook and Wellesley Hospitals, Canadian Tire Corporation, and Bell Canada. The artist has been represented by several important galleries, including Odon Wagner Gallery, Toronto, Whitten Gallery, King City, Gallerie Shayne, Montreal, The Russell Gallery, Peterborough, Harbour Gallery, Port Credit and McLaren-Barnes, Oakville. Inspiration : Barbara Hall, June Callwood, Nelson Mandela