LUCIA HARDY

As an artist and rugby lover, it felt like a lightbulb moment when I realised I could make some art about rugby and at the same time raise some money for my club, Upminster RFC.

I am a mini's coach and a parent of two kids playing at the club.  As many people in the rugby family will know it is a fantastic experience to be involved in the sport, and in my case with such a great bunch of people, many of whom give up their time and energy for free, sharing their love of the game and making for a brilliant local community with great values at it's core.   When a call came out for fundraising ideas to help support the club in the aftermath of the pandemic, I came up with the idea to make some art to celebrate the beauty of the game.

Without realising it I'd also hit upon a subject that plays into the key themes that pop up in my work time and time again; character, strength, determination and the courage to thrive in the face of adversity.   Whether it's the passion and power I see from the touchline watching our seniors play, or nurturing the bright sparks in the youth teams (as inspiring as it is rewarding) rugby has proved itself to be the perfect muse, and I feel like this special series of work is only the start of something good.

All proceeds from every purchase of these special artworks will go directly to support the fantastic work of the club in the local community and their plans to add vital new developments to the clubhouse too, so a wonderful way to get involved and own some beautiful art whilst supporting the game we all love.