Damian continued his meaningful work in 2025 as a devoted patron of two charities, Cure EB and the Sir Hubert von Herkomer Arts Foundation (Sir HvH Arts). His support is continuous; year after year, he gives his time, energy, and voice to raise awareness and funds, ensuring both organizations continue their life-changing work. And as always, seeing Damian show up for these causes remains a true highlight of the year.
Cure EB (formerly Sohana Research Fund), founded by Sharmila Nikapota (Collins) after her daughter Sohana was born with Epidermolysis Bullosa. It is a charity driven by a clear mission: to fund research that will lead to effective treatments and ultimately a cure for this devastating genetic condition. Children living with severe forms of EB — often called “butterfly children” because of the fragility of their skin — endure constant blistering and wounds from even gentle friction or movement. Eating can be painful. Walking can be difficult. Dressing can take hours. There is currently no cure, and yet research is moving forward because people continue to care, donate, and stay involved. Damian is one of them.
As patron of the charity since 2014, this March, Damian attended the annual Research the Cure update event held at the Royal Institution of Great Britain. Leading scientists and clinicians shared promising advancements in gene therapy, wound treatment, and long-term research. Their work has identified more than twenty known genes linked to EB, with thousands of mutations now mapped — progress that was unthinkable not long ago. The atmosphere in the room was grounded in resolve but also hope — the kind that grows through collaboration, science, and steady advocacy.
Damian’s participation in campaigns such as Coffee to Cure EB and his continued presence at awareness events remind supporters that every contribution matters. One cup of coffee, one conversation, one shared link — small gestures multiply into meaningful progress. Supporting research means supporting a different future for the children and families living with EB today, and Damian continues to help lead that call.
His work with Sir HvH Arts carries a different kind of hope — one rooted in creative opportunity, confidence, and self-expression. The late great Helen McCrory championed Sir HvH Arts from the very beginning, believing wholeheartedly that every child, regardless of circumstance, should have easy access to the arts. After Helen’s passing in 2021, Damian stepped in as patron to continue the important work she helped build and believed in so deeply.
Early in the year, Damian attended the private screening and world premiere of the music documentary Rock-U-Mentory about the story of the band The Crimson. The band was developed by The Music Mentoring Project (TMMP) sponsored by the HvH Arts. It is an eclectic group influenced by urban-pop and R&B, and recently released an EP.
Meet the band!
In March, Damian hosted a private viewing of HvH Arts’ newest photography and art exhibition at LumiNoir Gallery in London. The evening brought together supporters, families, students, and guests including Deputy Mayor of Camden Councillor Eddie Hanson and CEO and Founder Debbi Clark. Student artists proudly stood beside their work — pieces created through HvH Arts programs, mentoring, and opportunities they would not otherwise have access to. Their talent and confidence spoke volumes about what this charity makes possible. And see what the proud patron has to say about the evening:
The exhibition also displayed a breathtaking collection of one-of-a-kind signed portraits of Helen McCrory, taken by renowned photographers including Debbi Clark, Charlie Gray, Ray Burmiston, and others. Proceeds from the exhibition went directly toward the continuation of the foundation’s programs.
In December, HvH Arts held an online auction in collaboration with Steven Roberts Art. The auction featured a selection of photographic works, including portraits of Helen McCrory, as well as a photograph of Damian and Helen together. The event was organized to raise funds in Helen McCrory’s honor, with proceeds supporting the “Helen McCrory Award”, which continues her legacy by championing emerging artistic talent.
One of the most meaningful developments this year came with the news that Damian and Helen’s daughter, Manon, has become a Youth Ambassador for Sir HvH Arts. Now nineteen and studying Fine Art at Central Saint Martins, Manon has stepped forward with grace and intention, sharing publicly for the first time how deeply her mother’s influence shaped her. As part of her new role, she will work alongside the Sir HvH Arts team to shape program development and help ensure young people not only participate in the arts, but also contribute to the ideas that shape them.
Here is what Manon has to say about HvH Arts:
“Whilst volunteering with Debbi, I have seen all the amazing things that HvH has encouraged and helped children to accomplish. Visiting the studios and being surrounded by creativity has formed the most stimulating and exciting workplace, whether your passion is painting, music or photography! As an A level art student (also studying English and ethics/philosophy) I greatly appreciate the way in which HvH nurtures young passion and have seen how imagination and exploration can quickly manifest into incredible work! Becoming a youth ambassador means a lot to me and I’m so excited to further involve myself in everything crazy and creative
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“Manon also shared her deeply personal decision that she has chosen to go by her mother’s surname, saying it represents the strong female legacy she hopes to embody. Way to go, Manon!
Seeing Damian support Cure EB and Sir HvH Arts, while witnessing the next generation take its place within this work, creates a powerful sense of continuity — a reminder that advocacy, when rooted in compassion, grows stronger over time. Whether standing in a gallery, attending a research symposium, or helping raise awareness, Damian continues to honor the people connected to these causes — those living with EB today, the young people discovering their artistic voice, and of course his beloved Helen, whose belief in generosity and opportunity continues to spread.
