An autistic artist who has created an intricate painting of Portman Road stadium said he was proud to be helping his “childhood club” support others like him.
Thanks to his photographic memory, artist David Downes explained that he can paint accurate depictions of places after visiting just once.
To prepare for his painting of Portman Road, he visited many times and took photos and even drone shots to be sure that he was doing the iconic home of the Tractor Boys justice.
Mr Downes described Town as his “childhood club” and said that the Blues have a special place in his heart.
“I think Kieran McKenna is an excellent coach – he has taken them up consecutive leagues, which is a real achievement,” he said.
“I went to the Everton game,” said the dad-of-one. “There were amazing crowds and real support. Considering how difficult it has been this season, there has been 100% support."
Visiting the club helped him to accurately recreate details of Portman Road which are constantly changing.
“I wanted to get an idea of where the crowds are when they leave, the different directions people go in,” he explained.
The painting took around two and a half weeks to complete, with Mr Downes juggling other projects and the running of his art gallery in Manningtree.
His painting is going to be sold at auction to raise funds for Ipswich Town’s community foundation.
The club now provides sensory packs to help autistic supporters enjoy the game. Each pack contains noise-cancelling headphones, a fidget spinner and a stress ball.
Mr Downes is an ambassador for Autism Anglia and said that he finds it “uplifting” to be able to inspire others like him.
He often welcomes young people on school trips into his gallery and particularly enjoys sharing his art with other autistic young people and answering their questions.
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