Tom Yendell was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 for his “outstanding contribution to young people with disabilities.”
The Alton-based artist, who was born in Winchester, has been a member of the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) organisation for almost 40 years.
He creates graphic and colourful work using silk paints, watercolour and acrylic, with his passion for art beginning very early in his life.
He was born without arms due to the drug Thalidomide prescribed to expectant mothers in the early 1960s.
Mr Yendell has built a career as an artist and an advocate for inclusivity.
He is the founder of the Unique Art Awards for young disabled artists, and has worked internationally with the TEABAG Charity.
The MFPA is a collective of disabled artists who paint using only their mouths and feet.
Each year, the group launches a Christmas product range, transforming artwork into high-quality gifts.
Each purchase directly supports these artists, helping them earn an independent living.
Mr Yendell’s artwork features in the Any Year Diary and Days to Remember Book. The products are available to purchase from the MFPA shop, which sells Christmas cards, calendars, diaries, wrapping paper and more.