David is featured on the BBC News website this week for a painting he completed of Portman Road, the home of Ipswich Town Football Club. The BBC news article features a picture of David with the impressive painting of the Ipswich Town Football Ground, Portman Road, which David completed in just over two weeks, alongside other projects, whilst running his Gallery in Manningtree, Essex.
As an autistic artist and an ambassador for Autism Anglia, David is committed to raising awareness of autism and said it was a privilege to work with the club and help raise money for their Community Foundation. He hoped his painting would give inspiration to people and raise money to help other people with autism. David was particularly impressed with Ipswich Town and their genuine commitment to diversity, inclusion and engagement with the local community.
The painting of Portman Road will be auctioned to raise money for the club’s Community Foundation and the money raised will allow them to continue their work in the community. One initiative is the provision of sensory packs for autistic supporters. Packs contain noise-cancelling headphones, a stress call and a fidget spinner.
Before completing the painting, David visited Portman Road. David has a photographic memory, and he is able to paint places he has visited from his recollections, a gift he puts down to his neurodivergent brain.
David has a keen interest in sport and football and was honoured to have the opportunity to collaborate with Ipswich Town Football Club to promote inclusion in football. For more on the feature please visit the BBC website.
David Downes is represented by Exceptional Agency
