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

Nathan Jones Noah with one of the paintingsNathan Jones
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."

Ed Sheeran recorded a video message in support of the project
Ed Sheeran Ed Sheeran's artEd Sheeran
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 and was so popular it was exhibited several times 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."

social media post
Noah's father Nathan posted this message on social media and had a huge response
Grayson Perry Grayson Perry's pieceGrayson Perry
Grayson Perry painted this striking image over the background Noah sent to him
Mr Doodle Mr Doodle's pieceMr Doodle
Artist Sam Cox, better known as Mr Doodle, contributed this piece to the exhibition
Nathan Jones Noah and Nathan painting at homeNathan Jones
Noah, who has hydrocephalus, epilepsy and cerebral palsy, began painting on cardboard at home to pass the time during lockdown
Joe Lycett Piece by Joe LycettJoe Lycett
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 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.

Shepard Fairey Shepard Fairey's pieceShepard Fairey
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 ends at 18:00 BST on Sunday.

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