Most of us have been there – sitting in a classroom, trying to focus on the teacher, but our minds keep wandering. For Joe Whale, his mind often wandered to his love of doodling. The 9-year-old boy from Shrewsbury, England, would frequently get into trouble for doodling in his workbook during class.
However, Joe’s parents decided to encourage his hobby instead of discouraging it. They enrolled him in an after-school art class near their home, where his teacher, Kerry, quickly realized that Joe had a genuine talent.
“His work is very exact and immaculate,” Kerry explained. “It’s very balanced, and he goes straight to ink and creates perfect work straight from the start, no practicing beforehand.”
Joe’s art teacher shared some of his work on Instagram, which caught the attention of the owner of a local restaurant called “Number 4.” The owner was so impressed with Joe’s talent that he asked if the 9-year-old could use his drawings to decorate the restaurant’s dining area.
Joe was thrilled at the opportunity, and his dad, Greg, would take him to the restaurant after school so he could work on his artwork. “Joe is a really talented little boy,” Greg said proudly. “He’s excelling at school, he’s a great footballer and cricketer, but drawing is definitely what he is most passionate about.”
Joe’s love of doodling had often gotten him into trouble at school, but now it was leading to some amazing opportunities. His parents were overjoyed to see their son’s passion being recognized and encouraged. “We’re so proud of everything he’s achieving,” Greg said. “The fact that a completely independent business has asked our 9-year-old son to do a professional piece of work for them is incredible.”
