Viewing Pride of England at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery

The surprising intersection between football and contemporary art has been a burgeoning trend in recent years, with both artists exploring their love of the beautiful game in artworks (including photographers like Juno Calypso, Andrew Pierre Hart andNoa Klagsblad) and galleries like Oof dedicating their programme to it.

Pride of England is the latest to explore these fascinating connections, and celebrate the diversity, unity and legacy in communities across the country of England’s football teams. At the centre of this exhibition is artist Matt Small’s sculptures Three Lions, created in collaboration with young people in Ealing. The sculptures were commissioned by the Football Association for the England Men’s Football Team participation in Euro 2024, even travelling to Germany with the team.

At this exhibition at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery – made possible by crowdfunding – the Three Lions has come home; the commission was made at Pitzhanger with the help of children from across Ealing using recycled footballs. In addition to the sculptures, the exhibition will showcase portraits of football icons, including Ealing-born stars Bukayo Saka and Chloe Kelly, who have inspired millions.