'Upside down' artist with learning disabilities makes gallery debut

An artist with learning disabilities is exhibiting his ‘upside down’ paintings at a gallery for the first time.

Aged 75, Rob Frogley will be exhibiting 20 pieces of his artwork from 17 March after developing his own style- in which many of his paintings can be viewed at any angle.

Mr Frogley has been painting in his trademark abstract style and will soon exhibit at the art gallery Lansdown Hall in Stroud.

Rob Frogley said: “I’m very proud to have my paintings exhibited at Lansdown Hall.

"In the future, I’m hoping to do more exhibitions, sell my work and become better known as an artist.”

The 75-year-old has been painting for as long as he can remember and has been supported by Hft care staff at Stroud Domiciliary Care Agency.

Stroud Domiciliary Care Agency run by HfT, was rated as Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission in 2018. The setting’s art room is regularly used by Rob Frogley and his housemates.

Mr Frogley says the inspiration for his art comes from religious architecture including churches and cathedrals, with particular focus on arches and stained glass window.

One of Mr Frogley's support workers assists him to go on trips to churches and cathedrals across the UK.

Rob is one of 60 people in Gloucestershire supported by HfT.

Hft supports more than 2,500 people with learning disabilities across the country. This includes helping people with learning disabilities to live independently in their own homes.

Emma Bagley, divisional director at Hft, said: “We couldn’t be more pleased that Rob has been given the opportunity to showcase his talent to the whole community.

“Rob has been supported by Hft for all of his adult life and we’ve loved being able to see him flourish as an artist over the years. His time to shine is finally here.

“Having the chance to pursue your passions is hugely important, and we work hard to ensure people are able to live with more independence and choice. Rob’s success is testament to this and we’re so proud of him.”

Rob Frogley's paintings will be exhibited at Lansdown Hall in Stroud until 22 March.