Some moments in football go beyond the pitch. This is one of them.
From the moment Reece James was named Chelsea captain, artist Charlie Johnston (@chabz_art) knew he wanted to create something special.
His vision? To capture Reece’s journey – from that unforgettable breakthrough goal against Ajax to leading his boyhood club as captain.
The result? “King of Beast” – a powerful portrait symbolising his leadership, resilience, and Chelsea legacy, featuring a lion at the centre as a nod to both Reece and the club.
Last week, alongside Paul Canoville and Raphael (CEO of the Paul Canoville Foundation), Charlie had the chance to present the finished artwork to Reece himself at Cobham. Not only did Reece love it, but he also signed it, making this already incredible piece even more iconic.
Now, this one-of-a-kind artwork will be gifted to the winning school at our International Women’s Day Celebration at Stamford Bridge very soon – a fitting tribute to a campaign championing allyship, belonging, and community.
Take a look at the full gallery above, capturing the moments Reece James signed the artwork, artist Charlie Johnston shared his creative process, and the story behind King of Beast.