LS Lowry's Going to the Match: A Journey Through Football Culture, Art, and Legacy

LS Lowry's iconic 1953 painting, Going to the Match, has long been celebrated as a masterpiece of British art and a poignant depiction of northern football culture. This cherished work, portraying fans streaming towards Bolton Wanderers' former Burnden Park stadium, has taken on new life since being secured for public display and embarking on a regional tour. Its journey from auction record-breaker to community treasure highlights its significance in art and football history.

Securing a Masterpiece for the Public

In October 2022, Going to the Match was sold at a Christie’s auction for a record-breaking £7.8 million. Previously owned by the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), financial challenges forced the union to sell the painting, raising concerns about its future accessibility. Thanks to a generous donation from The Law Family Charitable Foundation, the painting was purchased by The Lowry gallery in Salford. The acquisition ensured that this beloved artwork would remain publicly accessible near the artist’s birthplace.

Julia Fawcett, chief executive of The Lowry, described the painting as a "masterpiece" that captures "the pre-match expectation and excitement" so familiar to northern communities. She emphasised the importance of keeping the artwork accessible for free, ensuring that future generations could connect with Lowry’s vision of industrial life and its deep ties to sport.

A Regional Tour for the People

As part of its mission to reach wider audiences, Going to the Match has been included in a regional tour across northern England. The initiative aims to bring the painting closer to communities that share the cultural heritage it represents. The tour includes stops in Bury, Oldham, Blackpool, and Birkenhead, with the painting currently on display at Gallery Oldham until February 2024.

In addition to showcasing Going to the Match, the exhibitions feature photographs and memorabilia exploring football fan culture. Bury Art Museum, for instance, has incorporated items loaned by Bury Football Club supporters, adding a personal touch to the displays.

Councillor Peter Dean of Oldham highlighted the significance of the tour, calling it "a real honour" for the painting to be shared with communities across the North West. The initiative underscores the commitment to preserving not just the artwork itself but the spirit of the northern working-class communities that Lowry so vividly depicted.

A Legacy of Art and Sport

Lowry, who died in 1976, spent much of his life in Salford, and his work is intrinsically linked to the industrial landscapes and daily lives of northern England. Going to the Match is one of several sports-themed paintings by Lowry, reflecting his fascination with the communal rituals surrounding football. This particular painting, which won first prize at a 1953 exhibition sponsored by the Football Association, is considered one of his most celebrated pieces.

Bolton Wanderers' old Burnden Park stadium, the scene of the painting, was just a few miles from Lowry's home and served as both a literal and imaginative inspiration. The painting captures the bustling crowds and collective anticipation that define the football experience, resonating deeply with those who have shared similar moments.

Preserving Cultural Heritage

The journey of Going to the Match—from its creation to its recent tour—reflects the enduring power of art to connect communities and preserve cultural identity. Its return to Salford and its accessibility through regional exhibitions ensure that this iconic piece remains a shared treasure for all, celebrating both the artist’s legacy and the vibrant football culture of the North.