Sheffield-based artist Jonathan Matthewson, known in the art world as Bubba2000, is set to unveil his first exhibition since a life-altering stroke in 2018.
The 48-year-old, who previously collaborated with renowned figures like street artist Banksy and comic book illustrator Jamie Hewlett, lost the ability to draw with his dominant left hand following the stroke.
However, his determination to continue creating art led him to relearn drawing with his right hand.
The exhibition, titled Home-Coming, will debut at Sheffield’s Workstation on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in Matthewson’s recovery journey.
“I want to create because you never know when your time is up,” he shared, reflecting on his renewed perspective on life after surviving the stroke at age 41.
Matthewson’s stroke, which occurred after a series of spinal surgeries, impacted not only his motor skills but also his speech, causing him to develop a severe stammer.
Despite these challenges, he refused to give up on his passion.
“I knew I could do it because of the left hand, but you’ve just got to channel it through to the right hand,” he said, describing the process of relearning his craft.
Known for his iconic works, including the NHS mural in Meersbrook and the portrait of Jarvis Cocker in Kelham Island, Matthewson has since transitioned away from street art.
“I learned a lot from Banksy, but I feel you can become a tribute act to yourself if you keep doing the same thing over and over again,” he explained, reflecting on his evolution as an artist.
Home-Coming will feature dozens of celebrity portraits and stencil art, showcasing Matthewson’s resilience and adaptability.
The free exhibition aims to demonstrate that art can be both fun and accessible.
This marks his first show in Sheffield since 2018, following a series of exhibitions with Quantus Gallery in London.
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