Students from Ealing football star, Bukayo Saka's old school have displayed their art next to portraits of England Footballers at an exhibition in Gunnersbury.

Nine GCSE Art, Greenford High School students have taken part in an art project with artist Matt Small, and their work is now on display as part of his exhibition Above and Beyond at Gunnersbury Park Museum.

Above and Beyond showcases Matt Small's portraits of England footballers Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling, Markus Rashford and Gareth Southgate.

The exhibit aims to celebrate the 'altruistic' nature of these four individuals, who have inspired many with their 'kindness, bravery and generosity'.

Greenford High School was invited to take part in the art project to celebrate their link to Bukayo Saka, who was a student at Greenford High School.  

Pupils worked with Matt Small to produce artwork inspired by his portraits.

The students' artworks represent their feelings during the challenges they faced in lockdown: from school closures, online schooling, difficult family situations with parents under intense pressures and being cut off from friends and family.

Georgia Pawelko, Art teacher at Greenford High School said: "Our students were so excited and proud of the work they produced.

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"Their skills and confidence have developed so much throughout the sessions."

Matt Small asked the students to reflect on how they coped during those times and all the things they did, whether big or small, that helped-out and put others first. 

They then channelled their feelings into painting self-portraits that celebrate those characteristics.

 Matt Small said: "These self-portraits are a tribute to all the young people that made a difference by being mindful and considerate of others during the pandemic.

"It is important for them to reflect back and realise that alongside the amazing nurses, doctors and front-line workers children have played a huge part in the efforts to get us all through these difficult times.

"We should applaud and commend them for this. What a pleasure it was to do the workshops with the lovely pupils of Greenford High…what a talented bunch they are."

Gareth Brettell, Learning Officer at Gunnersbury Park Museum said: "We are grateful for the funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund which has enabled us to be a part of art projects such as this and we are delighted to highlight the efforts of local students.

"Their art looks amazing within the spectacular setting of this historic house and we encourage visitors to come and enjoy it during the half term."

The students' artwork can be found at Gunnersbury Park Museum.

The free exhibition will be on display until 31st October 2021.

For more information on Above and Beyond visit their website.