A wood sculptor who suffered a stroke and died for 21 minutes has been exhibiting his work since his recovery.

Balavendra Elias, moved to Brighton from India 35 years ago when he was 18 after a couple were so impressed by his talents they offered him the opportunity to move in and go to art school.

The 53-year-old, who has worked as a nurse, enjoyed carving and painting as a hobby until he suffered a massive stroke while visiting India in 2016.

He was declared dead for 21 minutes, stayed in hospital for almost a month and was unable to continue his passion.

The Argus: The Argus met Balavendra in his studio back in MayThe Argus met Balavendra in his studio back in May

It took Balavendra years to be able to pick up his tools again but he describes himself as the “happiest man in the world” being able to exhibit his work over the last month.

He said: “After my stroke, my fear was not being able to wood carve again. I couldn’t carve for around a year.

“I kept going every day and that fear is disappearing now, I don’t think about it. I just do my work.

The Argus: Balavendra in Southwick Community Centre with his workBalavendra in Southwick Community Centre with his work (Image: The Argus)

“People can now see my work since my stroke.”

Balavendra was able to display his work for the first time since his stroke at Brighton and Hove City Arts Council festival in Ship Street, Brighton, in April.

Now he has been exhibiting just his own work at Southwick Community Centre in Southwick Street.

It has been displayed for the last month and will be on display next week too.

Balavendra, who lives in Southwick, added: “The reception has been very good. I have a book that people can sign when they come in. People have given wonderful comments about my work.

“I don’t do it for money, I’m proud to say that really. The exhibition is to show people what I have done.

The Argus: Balavendra is the 'happiest man in the world' being able to wood carve againBalavendra is the 'happiest man in the world' being able to wood carve again

“I couldn’t speak or understand what was happening to me. I became like a child but very slowly things have come back to me like my carving.

“I like to be creative, I don’t copy anything. I want to teach wood carving in my studio to people as my next thing.”

Balavendra said he wants help to modify his workshop so he can start teaching people wood carving.