Art: Former footballer launches Art collection

We love it when different elements of society met.

This time, it's football and Art.

Ex-Manchester United star Eric Cantona has launched an exhibition on sporting heroes and their impact on society.

The football legend helped to curate the show, which also features artist Michael Browne's depictions of soccer icon Diego Maradona, boxer Muhammad Ali and Olympic athlete Jesse Owens.

Browne said he wanted to highlight those "who have been fighting against injustices throughout the world".

Cantona told the world's media at launch that he hoped the display would encourage interest among children.

The 56-year-old said he wanted the sport-themed artworks at Manchester's National Football Museum to introduce youngsters to wider issues in society.

An icon on and off the pitch

Eric Cantona Artist

As a footballer, he combined technical skill and creativity with power and goalscoring ability. Upon retirement from football, he got involved in the world of cinema and Art.

Icons of sport: Eric Cantona (wsnews1.blogspot.com)

Born in Marseille, Cantona retired from professional football in 1997 before becoming involved in film acting and production. He won 4 Premier League titles and 2 Fa Cups before he retired. Cantona was also part of the Leed's side that became champions in 1992. The forward also had success with his home team Marseille.

Since retiring, he spoke out about the negative impacts of the modern game. This includes staging of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

More social media reaction

Art Battle Manchester tweeted: "We were hugely privileged this week to preview the incredible exhibition 'From Moss Side to Marseille' at The @FootballMuseum. Local art legend and Art Battle MCR winner Michael Browne has been working with Eric Cantona for last 6 years to create this breathtaking work.

"It features sports stars that dared to be different and stand up for their beliefs and create social change. It opens today until 1st June, be sure to go and check it out and help educate the next generation. It's beyond words."

 The host of the event posted the following: "'I love art, I love paintings, so I was very proud to meet a great artist.' Huge thanks to everyone who came to the grand opening of From Moss Side to Marseille: The Art of Michael Browne and Eric Cantona."

World Super News (wsnews1.blogspot.com)