Thirteen year old Mathew’s amazing 3D drawings have an impressive tale of creativity. It usually takes him couple of minutes to finish artistic sketches by using biro ink pen. He got his first award at age of six from his local council. He has also won international awards for his art. His wonderful sketches are included in the ‘I fantastici 15’ Magazine, which is run and published by children with autism. We are proud of Matthew for his great talent.

What is your favorite thing to draw? What do you like about drawing?M: Probably trains, Thomas the Tank Engine and friends is what I first drew and I often return to drawing trains (no longer Thomas and Friends), but now sketch diesel and electric as well as steam trains. I like drawing because there are no limitations and anything is possible.

Tell us about one of your favorite sketches? How long does it take you to finish one sketch.M: I don’t have any favourite sketches, I like all of them, often being inspired by what I’m interested in at the time. It only takes me a couple of minutes to complete a sketch, most of the time and my dad says I’m like a printing machine (drawing one picture after the other, in quick succession). However, sometimes I return to earlier sketches to add more detail. We have to remember to take a drawing book with us everywhere I go.

What are your other hobbies?M: Some say eating is another favourite hobby, as I have a healthy appetite and do enjoy a healthy diet. I love horse-riding with Broadlands Group Riding for the Disabled Association, which I have done for several years now and also like playing keyboard music, reading and playing Minecraft and Roblox on my dad’s computer.

What is your favorite place to visit?M: Not sure how to answer this one? Restaurants perhaps? I like the place that I ride, in Hampshire, which is beautiful and very peaceful. I like North Yorkshire, where we’ve been on lots of holidays and I’m looking forward to going on holiday to Austria this year, with my parents. I’d love to visit my friend and International award winning singer Joshua Cochrane, in Nova Scotia. He’s a couple of years younger than me but we get on really good.

What do you like to do when you are with your family?M: I love family time with mum and dad, watching television together and eating with their friends (at home, or elsewhere). I like to meet my friend Peter Gladney who has Down’s Syndrome, and his family, along with other family members.

Any special message for our community?M: Talent means nothing, unless it has an audience, is appreciated, praised and encouraged by others. I have been lucky in this, so far, and hope my talents translate into a living (as it has for the phenomenal Stephen Wiltshire). Do what you enjoy, as long as it isn’t hurting yourself, or others.