Newly discovered artist showcased in major exhibition

THE newly-discovered work of a talented artist from Warrington is to feature in an exhibition at one of the country’s most prominent arts centres
Nathan Clapham, who is supported by Warrington-based social care charity, Community Integrated Care, has had his artwork chosen to e showcased at arts-hub HOME’s Manchester Open exhibition.
Incredibly, Nathan was unaware of his artistic talent until he recently attended a community group and blew people away with his creations.
Nathan, who has a physical disability, has been supported by Community Integrated Care since 2017 and has always been keen to make new friends and explore new hobbies. His talent was discovered after his support worker encouraged him to attend Wigan-based community group My Life, who work to connect people of all ages and abilities in the local area.
His artwork “City Railway Bridge” depicts a well-known scene on Manchester’s Deansgate, looking through a traditional railway bridge to the city’s modern towering skyscrapers. It will be one of 400 pieces on display at the event, selected from over 2,000 submissions – an incredible achievement.
Manchester Open is one of its most successful exhibitions to date, showcasing 400 works of the very best creative talents of Greater Manchester. It received over 33,000 visitors in its inaugural year in 2020.
Nathan said: “When I found out that my artwork had been chosen for the exhibition out of thousands of entries, I was speechless and had butterflies in my stomach – I had never experienced anything like it before! I didn’t even know that I was good at painting or drawing until one of my support workers helped me find My Life and I joined in some of the art classes. I found that I was really interested in different structures and buildings and decided that I would have a go at painting them!
“Everyone has been really supportive and encouraged me to keep practising and to be proud of my achievements! Now, I really enjoy art and I try to be confident about my work!”
Jordan Swift, service leader at Community Integrated Care, said:
“Nathan’s painting talents were only recently discovered when he began attending art sessions at a local social group. We were blown away by his creations and knew that he had a special talent.
“Being shortlisted for the Manchester Open is a fantastic achievement and we are so proud of Nathan for pursuing his passions. The whole team is so excited for him and we can’t wait to go and see his artwork on display!”
The exhibition runs until Sunday March 27.