A new exhibition of portraits featuring England footballers including Ealing’s own Chloe Kelly and Bukayo Saka is to go on display at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery from 22 January 2025 until 23 February 2025.
The mixed media on wood board portraits is by artist Matt Small who will also be showing his Football Association (FA) commissioned Three Lions sculptures, created in conjunction with Ealing schoolchildren from recycled footballs.
Footballers Kelly and Saka have strong Ealing connections. Lioness player Kelly, who scored England’s Euro 2022 extra-time goal for a 2-1 victory over Germany, was born in Hanwell and went to school at Elthorne Park High School. While Saka, who plays for Arsenal, who was born in Ealing played youth football for Greenford Celtic and attended Greenford High School.
Matt Small said: “The Pride of England show celebrates community and the deep sense of pride that comes from the connections people share with their local area. Chloe and Bukayo, as local heroes, embody this pride and inspire residents with their achievements. Their portraits are a fitting centrepiece of the exhibition, symbolising everything that makes the Ealing community great.”
Clare Gough, director of Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery added: “We are delighted to be showcasing two new portraits of Chloe Kelly and Bukayo Saka– Ealing raised stars of the England football teams. Their journeys from our local community to the international stage are a true inspiration, and we look forward to welcoming visitors to share in this celebration of home-grown talent.”
