Ed Sheeran and Grayson Perry help Essex teen's charity project

  • Published
Noah with one of the paintingsImage source, Nathan Jones
Image caption,

Noah is raising money to thank hospital staff who care for him

A teenager has collaborated with Ed Sheeran, comedian Joe Lycett and artist Grayson Perry to raise money for the hospital that treats him.

Noah, who has hydrocephalus, epilepsy and cerebral palsy, enjoys painting on cardboard at home in Dedham, Essex.

Artists from across the world finished the pieces, which are being auctioned for Colchester hospital.

His father Nathan Jones said: "It has been truly beautiful watching Noah flourish and smile throughout."

Media caption,

Ed Sheeran recorded a video message in support of the project

Image source, Ed Sheeran
Image caption,

Ed Sheeran painted this over the background that Noah supplied for him

During the coronavirus lockdown in 2020, 15-year-old Noah, who goes by the nickname Background Bob, was painting on cardboard to pass the time while he could not attend school.

Mr Jones posted on Instagram asking people to collaborate with his son and hundreds of artists came forward.

The project has already raised £160,000 through previous auctions and book sales, external and was so popular it was exhibited several times, external at Firstsite gallery in Colchester.

A mutual friend alerted Suffolk singer-songwriter Sheeran to the project, who said he was happy to take part and sent a video message, saying: "Good luck with everything and I love what you're doing."

Image caption,

Noah's father Nathan posted this message on social media and had a huge response

Image source, Grayson Perry
Image caption,

Grayson Perry painted this striking image over the background Noah sent to him

Image source, Mr Doodle
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Artist Sam Cox, better known as Mr Doodle, contributed this piece to the exhibition

Image source, Nathan Jones
Image caption,

Noah, who has hydrocephalus, epilepsy and cerebral palsy, began painting on cardboard at home to pass the time during lockdown

Image source, Joe Lycett
Image caption,

The comedian Joe Lycett contributed this piece to the auction

Over 260 original pieces of art are being sold on eBay, including pieces finished by artists Shepard Fairey and Sam Fox - the latter better known as Mr Doodle.

All funds will be go towards the Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals Charity, external which will use the money to make improvements to the neo-natal unit.

Mr Jones added: "We would like to take this opportunity to once again thank all the fabulous artists involved, there are some stunning pieces of artwork available.

Image source, Shepard Fairey
Image caption,

American contemporary artist and activist Shepard Fairey collaborated with Noah on this piece

"They have been at the core of making this project the success it has become and they all have a very special place in our hearts," added Mr Jones.

"Thank you to all our supporters, followers and the team behind us. Together we can all do great things!"

The eBay auction, external ends at 18:00 BST on Sunday.

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