Johnny was diagnosed with mildly severe autism at the age of two. His family participated in The Son-Rise Program with him for four years to help him find a creative outlet. This was a good experience for Johnny and as his interest grew, he also attended a weekly art group for people with special needs. He enjoys painting and art therapy has helped with self-expression. Johnny’s colorful artwork has been exhibited in England and Wales. His book, “Art by Johnny” is a compilation of his paintings. His talent is nurtured by the consistent support of his parents. Johnny’s father Henry Normal proudly features Johnny’s paintings as cover art on his recent books. His mother Angela Pell actively manages his Facebook art page and has answered on his behalf.

How and when did you learn to draw/paint so beautifully?J: Johnny took quite a long time to be interested in drawing and painting. We did a Son Rise programme with him for four years when he was little, and during that time encouraged using paints in all sorts of fun play. Eventually he began to pick up pens and brushes. A number of years back he started going to a weekly art group for people with special needs. He really enjoyed painting 'big' pictures using huge pieces of paper taped to the wall. Since then he's been very keen on painting. He likes using colours and painting relaxes him and he becomes totally absorbed in what he's doing - albeit only for about 30 minutes (maximum) at a time! He's fast! He is tall and likes to move around - and I've always tried to encourage him to paint with the paintbrush as opposed to drawing something in pencil first - because when I was at school I was taught this and it free-ed me up... and I think this approach suits Johnny because he's very definite and spontaneous with the marks he makes.

What are your other hobbies?J: Johnny likes being out in nature - walking and swimming. He likes visiting art galleries, restaurants, listening to music, looking after a friend's horses, watching movies and reading books.

What do you like to do when you are with your family/friends?J: Johnny likes 'playing' - he loves silly games like tickling and dancing to music. He likes playing a word game called 'categories' .

What is your favorite place to visit?J: Johnny likes visiting all sorts of places - he likes anywhere with a nice cafe he can get a drink and a slice of gluten and dairy free cake in! Most trips out have to end in a cafe!

Any special message for our community?J: I asked Johnny and he said, 'thankyou for liking my paintings'.