Liverpool Collaborates with Local Artist to Launch Champions League Special Edition Collectible Artwork

On September 7 Beijing time, Liverpool officially announced the launch of its first Champions League matchday programme artist series. Inspired by the club’s history, supporters and iconic European moments at Anfield, the series introduces exclusive cover artworks.

Liverpool official announcement:

The initiative will invite artists to design customised covers for selected Champions League matches this season, giving supporters the opportunity to collect a series of limited-edition match programmes. The first artist edition matchday programme will be used for Wednesday’s match against Atletico Madrid and will be available from Tuesday at stores in Anfield, Liverpool ONE and Williamson Square. On matchday, it will also be sold at official programme sales points around the stadium from four hours before kick-off.

The cover for this edition was created exclusively for the official matchday programme by Liverpool-based artist Abigail Rudkin, drawing inspiration from the club’s community spirit and the matchday experience at Anfield.

Rudkin’s signature expressionist painting style captures the unique energy and traditions of European matchdays at Anfield, with flags and banners at the centre of the artwork, elements that have long been an important part of the matchday experience. Through bold brushstrokes and vivid colours, Rudkin presents the visual spectacle created by supporters in the stands, paying tribute to the banners, colours and traditions that have become symbols of Liverpool’s European competitions.

Liverpool Senior Vice President of Merchandise Lee Dwerryhouse said: “Matchday programmes have always been an important part of the supporter experience. This collaboration with artists gives us the opportunity to add a new collectible element for fans while also celebrating Liverpool Football Club and its creative community.”

“We are delighted to work with talented artists throughout our Champions League journey and look forward to sharing their unique interpretations of Liverpool Football Club and these iconic European moments.”

Rudkin added: “Creating this piece has been a very special opportunity. I wanted to capture the atmosphere, colours and pride of European nights at Anfield, inspired by the seas of flags and scarves that transform the stadium into a unique visual symbol on matchdays.”

“I feel honoured to create a piece that will become part of the supporters’ matchday experience, and I hope fans enjoy discovering the details and stories woven into the artwork.”

The launch of this artist cover series is intended to provide supporters with more content worth collecting and preserving. By combining football, art and creative talent, the initiative also celebrates the unique appeal of Liverpool Football Club both on and off the pitch.