Ipswich Town unveiled a 170-square-metre mural on Princes Street ahead of their first Premier League home game against Sunderland. The artwork, designed by fan Bradley Lloyd, celebrates the club’s legends, the town’s diversity and iconic moments such as Terry Butcher’s England cap and Russell Osman’s Escape to Victory kit.
BBC reported that the mural was chosen from a shortlist by supporters and was installed on a wooden hoarding opposite Portman Road. Bradley Lloyd said, "Us and our people" – a phrase that inspired the design. Andrew Wood, chief revenue officer and Ipswich Central board member, added, "We are delighted that so many supporters are now able to see a piece of art which represents all that’s good about Ipswich Town."
What does the mural say about Ipswich Town’s identity?
The mural covers a 170-square-metre wooden hoarding on Princes Street, a prominent spot near Portman Road. It showcases club legends and the diversity of the town, with scenes of Terry Butcher playing for England and Russell Osman in the Escape to Victory kit. The design was drawn digitally and took a few months to reach its final form.
The phrase "Us and our people" echoes the club’s community focus. Bradley Lloyd explained that the quote came from captain Dara O’Shea and guided the layout, ensuring that the mural reflects the collective spirit of supporters and residents alike.
How was the mural chosen?
Supporters were invited to vote on a shortlist of proposals from artists, designers and creatives. The winning design was selected by the fan base, giving the project a democratic feel. The competition required proposals to fill the wooden hoarding, and the chosen artwork was then installed ahead of the Saturday match against Sunderland.
The mural’s installation was a collaborative effort. Wolsey’s Gate, a local landmark, had to be incorporated, and the bricks were carefully matched to the surrounding architecture. The project took several months to complete, with the final design approved by club officials and local authorities.
Current season snapshot
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| League standing | 8th in Premier League, 3 pts, 1W-0D-0L |
| Goals this season | 2 scored, 1 conceded |
| Next fixture | vs Manchester United (away, 2026-08-30) |
Ipswich currently sit 8th in the Premier League, 3 points from 1 win, 2 goals scored and 1 conceded. Their next match is against Manchester United on 30 August, a game that will test the squad’s resilience.
What’s next for the club after the unveiling?
The mural adds a visual celebration to matchdays at Portman Road and to the town itself. It will be a backdrop for fans as they head to the stadium for the Sunderland game. The club’s leadership believes the artwork will strengthen community ties and enhance the matchday experience.
Fans can check the club’s upcoming schedule on our fixtures page and see how the team has performed in recent matches on the standings page. The mural also serves as a reminder of the club’s heritage as it navigates the challenges of the Premier League.
The unveiling of the mural ahead of the Sunderland match marks a new chapter for Ipswich Town, blending art, history and community in a single, striking visual statement.
