Affidea Stadium Captured on Canvas for Ulster Rugby Foundation
A unique painting of the Affidea Stadium, created live during the Ulster Rugby End of Season Awards, has been officially presented following a successful fundraising effort for the Ulster Rugby Foundation.
Local contemporary artist Stephen Whalley completed the artwork in front of guests at the annual awards evening held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Belfast. The live painting formed part of the night's fundraising activities, with all proceeds from the auction and event donated to the Ulster Rugby Foundation.
The one-of-a-kind piece was successfully acquired on the night by Belfast presenter and columnist Pamela Ballantine MBE, who recently received the artwork during a special presentation at the Affidea Stadium ahead of the new men's senior season.
Present for the occasion were Ulster Rugby Head of Rugby Development Chris Webster, Ulster Men's Senior player Stewart Moore and artist Stephen Whalley.
Based in Belfast, Whalley is renowned for his contemporary landscape paintings inspired by locations across Northern Ireland. A graduate in Design from Ulster University, he has built a successful career creating original artworks and live painting experiences for corporate and charity events, helping to raise significant funds for charitable causes through his work. His paintings often capture iconic local landmarks and landscapes, while his live event artwork has become a popular feature at fundraising events across the UK and Ireland.
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Speaking at the presentation, Chris Webster said:
"The End of Season Awards was a fantastic evening that celebrated the people who make Ulster Rugby special, while also raising valuable funds for the Ulster Rugby Foundation. Stephen's artwork captured the Affidea Stadium brilliantly and we're delighted that the piece has found a home with Pamela following her generous support of the Foundation."
The Ulster Rugby Foundation works to support rugby development initiatives across the province, helping to create opportunities for players, coaches, referees and volunteers throughout the game.
Ulster Rugby would like to thank Stephen for his contribution to the evening and Pamela for her continued support of the Foundation and the wider rugby community.