A self-described "terrible" artist from Alsager, Cheshire has found unexpected success after receiving hundreds of commissions following widespread national and international media attention earlier this year. Jamie Lee Matthius, who initially created a poster-paint canvas as a humorous gift for his wife in May 2024 to celebrate their wedding, has now shipped artwork worldwide and received approximately 280 orders in total.
What started as a simple joke quickly escalated into a thriving side business. Matthius told BBC Radio Stoke at the beginning of this year that he had already taken dozens of orders, but the demand has continued to grow exponentially. "I seem to be painting most weeks, actually, it's been absolutely crazy," he explained about nine months after his initial media appearance.
The artist's unconventional work has attracted attention from national press outlets as well as television channels across the United States and Europe. Surprisingly, Matthius has developed a particularly strong customer base in Taiwan for his unique art business. "I was expecting nothing – we thought we'd maybe sell a few, at best, to family and friends," he said, expressing his amazement at the international reach of his work.
The original wedding portrait of himself and his wife, which Matthius describes as "by far the worst one," eventually found its place on their home wall after some initial resistance. "It was to prove a point – because she suggested no-one else would want anything that bad in their living room," he explained. "She wouldn't hang it, so it was a bit of a joke and a bit of banter." The piece served as the catalyst for what would become an unexpectedly successful artistic venture.
Matthius has been commissioned to paint a diverse range of subjects, including portraits of recently deceased relatives, children's school photos, and various animals. He has also created group paintings featuring members of BBC Radio Stoke's presenting team, including a notable portrait of presenter Lee Blakeman. Despite the unconventional nature of his work, Matthius finds genuine enjoyment in the process. "I enjoy doing it as a hobby and I find it relaxing," he said. "I still can't believe people order."
The success of his artwork has led to notable television appearances, including spots on The Kelly Clarkson Show in the United States and Channel 4's The Last Leg in the United Kingdom. Matthius described the latter as his favorite television experience, saying: "To go on there and get absolutely rinsed on telly was absolutely hilarious, definitely a highlight of the year." His willingness to embrace the humorous criticism of his work has endeared him to audiences and contributed to his growing popularity.
