Time - The Story Behind My Scottish FA Commission Painting

Creating Time was one of the most meaningful commissions I have undertaken as a Scottish artist.

When I was approached by the Scottish Football Association to create a painting for Hampden Park, I initially saw it as an incredible opportunity to create artwork connected to Scottish football. However, as the project developed, I quickly realised this commission was about something much deeper than football.

The painting became a way of recognising the experiences of those who had bravely shared their stories, and creating a lasting reminder of the importance of listening, learning and moving forward.

Creating a Painting With Meaning

The painting, entitled Time, was completed in early 2025 after being commissioned by the Scottish FA and developed with guidance from Adult Voices, a group of people who courageously came forward to share their experiences of abuse in football.

The brief was not simply to create a painting about football. It was about capturing memories, childhood experiences and the connection that football has within communities across Scotland.

I drew inspiration from my own memories of playing football as a child, as well as research into historic photographs of children playing football in Scottish towns and cities. I also spoke with my father and others from older generations about their memories of growing up and the role football played within their communities.

The Inspiration Behind Time

One of the most important parts of this project was understanding that the painting needed to represent more than one person's story. It needed to reflect shared experiences, memories and emotions.

Throughout the process, I thought about how football connects generations. The parks, streets and communities where people grew up often become part of our identity and our memories.

I wanted the painting to capture that sense of connection, while also recognising the serious purpose behind the commission and the experiences that led to its creation.

The Scottish FA and Hampden Park Display

The creation of a permanent testimonial was one of the recommendations from the Independent Review into Sexual Abuse in Scottish Football, which examined the experiences of those affected and made recommendations for change.

The Scottish FA unveiled Time at Hampden Park as part of its commitment to recognising those experiences and supporting continued improvements in wellbeing and protection within Scottish football.

The Emotional Journey of Creating Time

This was a challenging commission because of the responsibility attached to it. Creating artwork for a subject with such personal meaning required sensitivity, understanding and patience.

There were moments during the process where I questioned whether I could create something that truly reflected the importance of the brief. Receiving feedback from members of Adult Voices after completing the painting was incredibly moving and confirmed that the artwork had connected with the people it was created to represent.

One of the most meaningful parts of the process was receiving personal messages from members of the group. That was something I never expected, and it made the experience even more meaningful.

Reflections on the Painting

One Adult Voices representative reflected on the role of art in helping to preserve memories and represent shared experiences:

"A piece of art or painting can so often capture a cultural bond, irrespective of where we grew up, and can also transcend time."

They also shared that the painting gave people an opportunity to reflect, understand and look forward with peace and contentment.

Listen to the Story Behind Time

A Permanent Reminder at Hampden Park

Time now stands as a permanent testimonial at Hampden Park, Scotland's National Stadium, representing the courage of those who shared their experiences and the importance of continuing to learn from the past.

For me, this commission represents one of the reasons I love creating paintings. Artwork can become more than decoration. It can preserve memories, tell stories and create something meaningful that lasts for generations.

Commission an Original Painting

I create original commissioned paintings inspired by personal stories, important places and meaningful moments.

Whether it is a Scottish landscape, a special location or a subject with personal significance, I work closely with clients throughout the process to create artwork that feels unique and personal.

If you would like to discuss commissioning an original painting, you can learn more about my commission process.

Support and resources:

If you or someone you know has been affected by the experiences discussed in this article, support and further information are available through the Scottish FA's Wellbeing and Protection resources.

• Police Scotland - 101
• NSPCC Helpline for people abused in football - 0800 023 2642
• Scottish FA Wellbeing and Protection Team - childrenswellbeing@scottishfa.co.uk