After months of teasing, Arsenal have finally revealed eight new exterior designs that will give the outside of Emirates Stadium its first major revamp since the stadium opened in 2006, all of which focus on the idea of 'Togetherness'.
The new designs were created by a diverse group of Arsenal supporters that included Turner Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller, critically acclaimed illustrator Reuben Dangoor and distinguished graphic designer David Rudnick.
All three creatives worked alongside one another over the course of nine months to create several designs that are set to transform the North London skyline and redefine the club’s home as a cultural landmark.
In order to ensure each design reflected the values and ethos of the club, more than 100 supporters, legends and their families were asked to participate in three consultation sessions to curate insight on the club’s heritage, culture and community – all under the banner of 'Togetherness'.
All eight designs represent a specific moment, team or ethos synonymous with Arsenal over the years. ‘Victoria Concordia Crescit’ depicts some of the club's most iconic players, all of whom embodied the spirit of what it means to be a Gunner. David Rocastle, Emma Byrne, George Male and Marieanne Spacey are some of the few legends detailed in the piece.
Whereas ‘Remember Who You Are’ pays homage to the memories of the club’s former home, Highbury, with the East Stand shown in all its glory, and ‘Invincible’ immortalising two of Arsenal’s greatest glories: the women’s Champions League winning team of 2006/07 and the men’s invincible Premier League season of 2003/04. Arsène Wenger’s team remain the only side to achieve this feat in the modern era, while Vic Akers’ Gunners are the only British team to lift Europe’s most prestigious club trophy.
Ensuring their fans are at the centre of the piece was paramount to the club, and the two most prevalent designs that reflect this are: 'We All Follow The Arsenal' and 'Found A Place Where We Belong'.
'We All Follow The Arsenal' is a rich tapestry inspired by supporters’ deep connections to the club, wherever they are in the world, from Islington to India. Featuring over 150 official supporter groups spanning all continents, the artwork comprises 187 banners and flags in total. The physical banners are handmade and individually photographed to create the authentic, billowing flag effect.
Whilst 'Found A Place Where We Belong', brings together 721 supporters who have contributed to the club’s success, given so much to the community and followed Arsenal through thick and thin. Bespoke flags and banners, which were handmade in Woolwich, featuring terrace anthems sung throughout the ages will be woven into the artwork.
The installation of the eight pieces of art will begin on January 12th, and will continue over the forthcoming weeks. In the meantime, fans are welcome to view an exhibition showcasing the designs also from January 12th - 14th between 10am - 4pm at Candid Arts Trust, 3-5 Torrens Street, London, EC1V 1NQ.
Take a closer look at the remaining designs below.