An artist from Hackney, Jason Ferry, who suffered from a brain abscess and subsequent stroke, has been working and exhibiting with Submit to Love Studios since 2016. The studio, a collective of over 40 self-taught artists with brain injuries, recently showcased their work in a 5-star exhibition at the Barbican. Ferry’s art, created at the local studio, will now be displayed on Old Street’s Digital Canvas, an outdoor advertising site opposite Old Street Roundabout. The exhibition received acclaim from The Guardian, and many artists, including Ferry, have highlighted how their involvement in art has aided in rediscovering a sense of identity, accomplishment, and self-worth post-injury.
Ferry’s collection called ‘I All Screwed Up’ includes Dolly, The Face, Jason, Dalek and Rainbow Man. All of these are to be exhibited on Old Street Digital Canvas, an 18m2 digital billboard surrounded by 25 satellite screens situated on the northeast side of Old Street Roundabout in the London Borough of Hackney.
The billboard at Old Street is one of London’s prominent digital screens, with an approximate weekly viewership of nearly 360,000. It’s strategically located to capture the attention of commuters traveling to and from Old Street tube station, as well as destinations such as the City of London, West End, Euston, and King’s Cross.
Jason Ferry’s artwork is the latest feature on the Old Street Digital Canvas, part of a community initiative supporting artists in Hackney. The project is a collaboration between Hackney Council, City Outdoor (an advertising media owner), and Wildstone, a leading owner of outdoor media assets in the UK.
The initiative was launched in early 2018 to increase exposure to local artists’ work and to widen public access to art through new means, including to audiences who may not otherwise engage with the visual arts. Local artists can submit their work for consideration on a dedicated website, with a curating committee deciding on the final pieces. The artworks are then promoted for a two-week period, during which time they are displayed for 10 seconds every minute, with the other 50 seconds of every minute reserved for regular commercial advertising.
In addition to raising awareness of Ferry’s work itself, his work has also been chosen by Old Street Digital Canvas’ curating committee to help raise awareness of the artistic rehabilitation opportunities available to those who have been impacted by brain injuries.
Jason Ferry’s exhibition at Old Street Digital Canvas will be on display until May 5th. Speaking about his experience, Jason shared, “I refuse to let my brain injury define me; I’m still the same person. Art has become a vital part of my life, and having it showcased in such a prominent location means a lot to me.” He described his creative process, saying, “I find inspiration in the act of painting itself, letting the colors guide me. When I’m immersed in my art, my mind clears, and I focus solely on the present moment.” Damian Cox, CEO & Founder of Wildstone, expressed pride in featuring local artists’ work, stating, “Public art plays a significant role in shaping our community and raising awareness. Exhibiting Jason’s work on the Old Street Digital Canvas is a privilege, highlighting the importance of supporting local talent.”
