Music and art fans are being offered a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own an Ed Sheeran original after the latest collection of colourful artwork created by an inspirational 14-year-old went under the hammer.
Around 250 brand new pieces by Noah, who is also known as Background Bob, are being auctioned to raise vital funds for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity. As well as a collaboration with Ed Sheeran, the collection also includes work created with Joe Lycett, Grayson Perry, Phill Jupitus and street art stars such as Shepard Fairey and Mr Doidl.
Joe Lycett’s collaboration with Background Bob
Noah’s family, who live in Dedham, have already raised a phenomenal £150,000 for the charity since Background Bob began. The money raised during the latest auction will be used to support children’s services at Colchester and Ipswich hospitals, which are run by East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT).
Dad Nathan said: “This project has been a true display of how loving and supportive the art community can be. It’s been a real joy to see so many artists come forward to get involved. They will forever be ‘Background Bob family’.
“This project has enriched my son’s life incredibly and he’s loved every minute.”
The Background Bob project sees Noah (pictured below) paint a colourful background onto card before a celebrity or street artist adds a design on top. It launched during the first COVID-19 lockdown, when Nathan reached out via social media to ask artists from across the world to consider collaborating with Noah, who loves to paint.
Since then, Noah and his family have put together three collections, all of which have been exhibited at Firstsite in Colchester before going under the hammer.
Grayson Perry’s collaboration
Dan Bailey, senior fundraising manager with Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, said: “Noah and his family have raised a staggering total for our charity and we’re incredibly grateful to them for their ongoing support. Their dedication is making a huge difference to the people who use our hospitals every day.
“Our thanks also go to all of the celebrities and artists who have so generously given up their time to contribute to this groundbreaking project. We really do appreciate their support.”
The auction runs until Sunday (15 October). To view the lots or to bid, go to www.ebay.co.uk and search for Background Bob.
For more information about Background Bob, visit his Instagram page @background_bob
More information about Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity is available online.
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