Autistic teen dubbed Sunderland Banksy finds voice with SAFC spray art | OneFootball

A 19-year-old non-verbal autistic teenager, Jack, has rebuilt his confidence by creating SAFC-themed spray-paint artwork after epilepsy intensified his challenges.

According to Sunderland Echo, regulars at the Cambridge Pub have dubbed him the Sunderland Banksy and some of his pieces are on show there.

His mother, Sara Berry, said seizures began at 14, including one at the Stadium of Light, and he was diagnosed with drug resistant epilepsy. Medication has caused a tremor, so brushes are difficult, which led him to spray painting.

Guided by Durham Spray Paints owner Lewis Hobson, Jack has launched a Facebook page, Purple Brain Creations, and produced portraits of captain Granit Xhaka and Luke O’Nien.

His latest work depicts Enzo Le Fee and the Spiderman inspired goal celebration at Everton, and Le Fee is now his favourite player.

Sara credits Hobson’s patience and professionalism, and support from Steven and Rachel Usher’s Sunderland AFC Supporters’ Group at the Cambridge Pub, with helping Jack develop his style. His consultant, Dr Steele, is pleased with the focus painting provides, and Sunderland’s 24NE Gallery has asked about displaying his work.

Source: Sunderland Echo