Background Bob: Essex boy whose art raised £250k dies aged 15

22 November 2023

Charlie JonesBBC News, Essex

News image — Noah, who had hydrocephalus, epilepsy and cerebral palsy, went by the nickname Background Bob

Nathan Jones Nathan at the gallery — Noah, who had hydrocephalus, epilepsy and cerebral palsy, went by the nickname Background Bob

A "beautiful, fun-loving, smiley boy" whose art projects raised £250,000 for charity has died aged 15, his family has announced.

Noah, who lived in Dedham, Essex, first collaborated with artists across the world for a painting project three years ago and raised money for the NHS hospital that treated him.

He teamed up with celebrities including Ed Sheeran and Grayson Perry.

Noah's father Nathan Jones said they would cherish their memories forever.

Nathan Jones Noah and Nathan painting at home — Noah began painting on cardboard at home to pass the time during lockdown

"It has been extremely special sharing our little legend with you all," said Mr Jones, writing on Facebook.

"You've all helped produce so many special moments and memories over the last three years. Moments we will cherish forever.

"He had a blast, made his mark and we are so proud of him."

Noah, who had hydrocephalus, epilepsy and cerebral palsy, went by the nickname Background Bob.

Nathan Jones Noah with one of the paintings — Noah raised money to thank hospital staff who cared for him

He started painting on cardboard to pass the time during the first Covid-19 lockdown while he could not attend school.

Mr Jones posted on Instagram asking people to collaborate with his son and street artists came forward from around the world.

The idea was so popular that the resulting art was exhibited several times at Firstsite gallery in Colchester and the family published several books.

Hundreds of pieces were auctioned for the Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals Charity - in aid of the hospital trust which treated him - across three different projects.

the mural — The artist Nathan Murdoch painted this mural of Noah in Peterborough, opposite his famous mural depicting the late Prodigy singer Keith Flint

Mandy Jordan, from East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said Noah was an "inspiration" who "had an infectious smile and endless positivity, both of which helped make sure he was never in the background".

She said the charity was "incredibly grateful" for Noah and his family's fundraising, which will be used for indoor and outside sensory spaces at the children's department and on refurbishing some areas of the neonatal department for parents to have a more comfortable stay.

"Noah leaves behind a lasting legacy which will continue to have a positive impact on hundreds of young patients for many years to come. We are very proud to have known him," she added.