Dad’s Terrible Paintings Turned into a Global Sensation

Quick Smiles:

• Jamie Lee Matthias turned a gag gift into a viral side hustle.
• His humorous portraits have attracted more than 430 commissions worldwide.
• He’s used the earnings for family treats and even won praise from Dame Judi Dench.

Jamie Lee Matthias accidentally launched a viral side hustle after creating a funny portrait as a gag gift for his wife. His unique style has now attracted over 430 commissions from families around the globe who want their photos reimagined with a humorous twist.

Operating under the name @TerribleArtByJamieLee, the artist from Cheshire has used his earnings to fund a new garden and a family holiday. His work even gained recognition from Dame Judi Dench, who signed one of his portraits for a hospice charity auction.

“Most people respond with joy and laughter which is why it’s been so fun, because they absolutely get it,” said the jokester.

“I didn’t expect it to become a big part of my life, but sometimes I spend more time painting than I do at my actual full-time job.”

“My kids say the paintings are terrible. You know what kids are like, they speak the truth. But deep down I know they love it.”

The self-taught painter now leads local workshops and gives demonstrations at schools to encourage others to embrace their creativity. Despite his international reach, he remains humble about his skills while celebrating the laughter his hobby brings to others.

“To have someone like Judi Dench look at my piece of artwork and agree to sign it is just absolutely insane really.”

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