Artist donates painting to deserving NHS hero fighting coronavirus

Nicolas Dixon, whose paintings are displayed around the world and have sold for thousands of pounds,, was moved to do something in recognition of the healthcare staff “working day and night” in the fight against coronavirus.

Mr Dixon is giving away an abstract painting, entitled Blush, and wants people to nominate their coronavirus healthcare hero for the prize.

Two runners up will also be given signed prints.

Mr Dixon, who was supposed to be painting a recording studio in Ibiza this week and travelling to India for work in the coming weeks - trips that have been cancelled due to the pandemic, said: “These are trying times for everybody, and everyone has a responsibility to make sure we come out of this - some more important than others.

“As an artist, I feel like I want to play my part by donating a piece to one of the amazing people who are doing an incredible job under extreme pressure.

“If I can bring a little bit of light and a smile to the face of someone when they are coming home after harrowing shifts looking after others, it’s the least I can do.”

The painting is created in Mr Dixon’s instantly recognisable style, with black lines and flashes of cloud on a pink backdrop.

Mr Dixon said part of the reason he was moved to support the city’s medical community was the care they gave to his late mother and his sister when she experienced a period of illness.

“In my experience, the NHS staff in Leeds always go above and beyond,” he added.

Mr Dixon is currently working on a commission for James Bond stuntman Matt Da Silva. Mr Da Silva, who is from Leeds, has also appeared in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and Game of Thrones. The painting has been named Lockdown.

Anyone wishing to nominate an NHS worker from the city to received the painting, should contact Mr Dixon via his website www.nicolasdixon.co.uk