Sir Richard Branson praises autistic artist's work
BBCAn autistic artist from Worcestershire said he was "speechless" after discovering Sir Richard Branson had bought one of his paintings.
The Virgin Group Founder, who has openly discussed being dyslexic, bought a painting from Rhys Caldwell-Clarkson, from Malvern, after being inspired by his work.
Diagnosed as autistic at eight years old, Caldwell-Clarkson told the BBC he began his new business Art on the Spectrum because his job in retail was overwhelming.
Sir Richard purchased one of his pieces after the BBC first reported his story. The businessman praised his work and congratulated him for launching the platform.
In a special video message to Caldwell-Clarkson he said: "I love your creativity and landscape paintings. I'm lucky enough to live by the sea and that's what keeps me calm.
"Your paintings are the most beautiful, calm things I've ever seen. So keep painting, keep dreaming and showing the world just what you can do."
The artist said quitting his job helped him discover his love of art, and he began creating paintings inspired by the landscape of the Worcestershire countryside.
BBC Hereford and Worcester surprised him with Sir Richard's video.
He said: "[It's] absolutely incredible. My heart is in my mouth at the moment. Wow. I don't know what to say."
Caldwell-Clarkson said Sir Richard buying one of his paintings has given him a boost to carry on.
The painting will be hung in one of the Virgin offices.
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