A TALENTED Isle of Wight man with Down’s syndrome and hearing loss has released his new 2023 calendar, featuring his own paintings of birds, butterflies and squirrels.
Kye Watson, 24, from Freshwater, has created 12 new paintings, adapted from photographs he captures while out in nature and walking his dog.
During the first lockdown in 2020, Kye started taking photographs of birds and butterflies and asked his parents if he could have a go at painting one of his photos of a swan.
Kye's mum, Kerry, taught him the basics of watercolour painting, and they have continued to learn techniques and style.
Kerry said: “We were really surprised at how it turned out, and he just carried on, getting better and better.
“He has grown in confidence so much and loves to hear what people have to say about his paintings.”
His favourite painting from the calendar is a swallowtail butterfly, which he travelled to Norfolk to find and photograph in June.
This year, Kye’s calendar is supporting Island-based charity Ability Dogs 4 Young People with a £1 donation from every copy sold.
The family dog, Aggie, was trained and supported by the charity, and now that she is retired, Kye aims to give something back to them.
Kye has also launched ‘KyesArt’ on Etsy, with cards, prints and this year’s calendar for sale.
He has recently been asked to do some commissions for friends and family, including one for St Mary’s Hospital.
Kerry added: “Supported employment for people with down’s syndrome is really hard to get, unfortunately, so to start an enterprise for him is really rewarding, and he loves that he feels that he has a job.”
To purchase Kye’s 2023 calendar, visit his Etsy site HERE.
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