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Burned artist's friends set up recovery fund Friends of a Southern Oregon artist and woodworker who was burned in an explosion last month in Grants Pass have set up a fund to help him recover. Bill Wright, 49, suffered third-degree burns over 40 percent of his body Nov. 18 in an explosion that destroyed his studio, artwork, woodworking equipment, vehicle and home. Josephine County sheriff's deputies are investigating the cause. Wright was taken to Emanuel Burn Center in Portland and was recently upgraded to serious condition. He was burned on his back, sides, arms, hands and part of his head. He must have at least four surgeries, be hospitalized for at least six weeks, and face about a year of physical and rehabilitational therapy. He has no insurance, and all of his possessions were lost in the fire. An account has been opened for his benefit at Klamath First Federal bank, account number 1300050033. Or checks may be mailed to P.O. Box 1225, Jacksonville, OR 97530. Wright's friends also have produced cards and prints of his artwork to raise funds. The artwork, titled "Conqueror," is a contemporary interpretation of Jesus Christ. For more information, or any household or business donations, write to the P.O. box above. Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 1998, Medford, Oregon USA