Manchester United legend Eric Cantona is set to participate in a unique art exhibition, “Football City, Art United,” which explores the experiences of football players through collaborations with artists. Cantona, alongside other football icons like Edgar Davids, Ella Toone, and Juan Mata, will showcase works created in partnership with renowned artists. The exhibition, part of the Manchester International Festival, aims to delve into the complex relationship between football and art.
Cantona’s contribution, developed with contemporary artist Ryan Gander, features an installation that playfully highlights the effects of fame on players. The installation uses a spotlight that randomly selects visitors and follows them throughout the gallery, mimicking the constant attention players face. This interactive piece reflects Cantona’s own experiences with fame, notably his infamous kung-fu kick incident in 1995.
Other notable collaborations include Manchester City and Netherlands star Vivianne Miedema’s exploration of football’s complex relationship with gender. Miedema has teamed up with US artist Suzanne Lacy to create a short film that delves into the societal dynamics of gender in football.
Former Ajax and Juventus midfielder Edgar Davids is working with US sculptor and video artist Paul Pfeiffer to exhibit a tunnel inspired by those players walk through before a match. Davids’ piece invites visitors to “step into the thoughts, feelings, and rituals players experience as they move through the sacred space between the dressing room and the pitch.”
Davids told the BBC that his love of art was first sparked when he was a graffiti artist in his youth. “My artistic style is very diverse, like my character,” he added. “I’m very broad, and I hope my art reflects my vision on life and how I view reality.” He expressed his delight at being paired with Pfeiffer, describing him as “an unbelievable artist.”
The exhibition will also feature artistic creations by Brazilian World Cup winner Raí, England defender Lotte Wubben-Moy, and former Mexico goalkeeper Jorge Campos. Juan Mata, co-curator of the exhibition, noted, “The worlds of football and art can both be beautiful, complicated, and powerful; something that is explored through these collaborations.”
“Football City, Art United” will run at Aviva Studios in Manchester from July to August. This unique art event promises to offer a captivating experience where football and art converge.
