Every artwork I create tells a story, but this one felt especially special.
I had the opportunity to work with Red Hand T-Shirt Company (link here) on a commission dedicated to the 36th Ulster Division, a unit known for its courage and sacrifice during the First World War.
As an artist, I was drawn to the challenge of capturing the spirit and legacy of the Division with respect and authenticity. The aim was to create a piece that paid tribute to the men who served — something that would honour their memory and preserve the story for future generations.
The composition draws on key moments and symbols connected to the 36th Ulster Division — from the Young Citizens Volunteers to the battles that defined their history, such as Somme, Thiepval, and Messines. The inclusion of Sir Edward Carson, the Red Hand of Ulster, and the poppy field at the base ties together themes of remembrance, identity, and sacrifice
Working on this commission was not only an artistic challenge but also a moment of reflection.
It reminded me that art can do more than decorate — it can preserve memory, honour sacrifice, and spark reflection about who we are and what we stand for.
The story of the 36th Ulster Division is one of courage, unity, and conviction in the face of adversity. Their example serves as a powerful reminder that the freedoms and values we hold today were hard-won — and that it is our responsibility to protect and uphold those values as a nation