John McNaught Spring Collection

As Stroke awareness month comes to an end this May, we want to raise awareness around stroke recovery and rehabilitation by shinning a spotlight on John McNaught’s story and creative practice. We have gathered 10 of his most recent paintings in this John McNaught Spring Collection.

John’s Story

John McNaugfht Artist Portrait by Alicia Bruce

McNaught first began painting pictures as part of his recovery process after suffering a major stroke several years ago. He was left unable to work, and needed months of rehabilitation to gain back some of his independence. He has come a long way since then, both in his recovery and in the development of his painting practice.

Through art, and with the support of his wife and children, John has made the very most of a life threatening situation. It was his wife, Patricia, who encouraged John to pick up a paint brush and get creative. Before losing the ability to work, John was a painter and decorator, and he really enjoyed art when he was in school. Taking up painting seemed logical to Patricia, though John did initially need some convincing!

So many aspects of John’s life changed after the stroke, and with so many negative changes, art was one very positive thing to come out of this. He has become an extremely talented painter, able to mimic any style he chooses, whether it be realistic, abstract or impressionist. He has mastered them all.

The John McNaught Spring Collection gathers some of his newest work: all one of a kind originals, painted in oil, on board. What John has achieved since his stroke is astounding; painting with his non-dominant hand is a feat in itself, and the dexterity he has been able to develop is remarkable. He changes his style regularly to continue progressing his practice. When he is not at Project Ability, enjoying the studio here in the company of his other artist friends, he is at home painting in his studio shed, where he has literally hundreds of small paintings filling every corner. We are continually in awe of his achievements.

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You can learn more about John and his story by watching this lovely film commissioned by the BBC in 2020: Painting Helped Me Live After My Stroke