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Toon Army 1996 Prints

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In the realm of football, certain teams evoke a fervent loyalty that transcends more that just a game – they become ingrained in the cultural fabric of their cities, embodying the spirit and identity of their communities. Newcastle United, affectionately known as the ‘Toon Army,’ stands as a prime example of such a phenomenon. Through triumphs and tribulations, the Toon Army’s unwavering support has been immortalised in countless forms, capturing the essence of their passion and dedication.

Newcastle United fans, St James' Park. Toon Army 1996
© Keith Pattison | Lower Block
Newcastle United fans, St James' Park. Toon Army 1996
© Keith Pattison | Lower Block

Lower Block is proud to exclusively offer photographic prints by Keith Pattison, which offer an intimate glimpse into the soul of the Toon Army circa 1996. Pattison, acclaimed for his ability to capture raw emotion and authenticity, brings forth a collection that transcends mere imagery, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the pulsating energy of Newcastle United’s fervent fanbase.

Newcastle United fans, St James' Park. Toon Army 1996
© Keith Pattison | Lower Block
Newcastle United fans, St James' Park. Toon Army 1996
© Keith Pattison | Lower Block
Newcastle United fans, St James' Park. Toon Army 1996
© Keith Pattison | Lower Block
Newcastle United fans, St James' Park. Toon Army 1996
© Keith Pattison | Lower Block

The photo series Toon Army 1996 is a collection of photographs by Keith Pattison that focuses on the emotions, facial expressions and instinctive reactions of Newcastle United fans in the stands during their dramatic 1995/96 and 1996/97 seasons.

1996 and Newcastle United and their devoted Toon Army twice stood on the brink of Premier League titles.

In consecutive seasons they were to finish second, both times to Manchester United, first in the 95-96 season and again in 96-97.

The pride and passion of their fervent fans so nearly helped push them over the line; Keith Pattison’s pictures captured the raw emotion flooding down from the terraces during nine gripping games, home and away, from April at the tail end of one season through to September at the beginning of the next.

These were to be Newcastle’s highest ever finishes and the tension on the terraces, and sometimes live in front of the TV cameras, was electric.

Pattison focus was solely on the faces in the crowd, not on the match action.

“I was never tempted to turn around to catch a glance of play. The faces in front of me provided a running commentary in themselves, a 90-minute emotional rollercoaster.” Keith Pattison

Pattison’s photographs make up the Lower Block photo zine ‘Toon Army 1996‘, the prints serve as both a visual homage to the club’s storied history and a testament to the enduring spirit of its supporters. From raucous celebrations to moments of poignant reflection, each photograph encapsulates a chapter of the Toon Army’s journey during those seasons – a journey marked by unwavering loyalty, unbridled passion, and an unyielding sense of community.

Photographs come as Archival Giclée prints with a pearl finish as standard, guaranteeing quality reproduction, at a range of sizes.

How to place your order: Select your desired size (A2, A3, A4) and add to your basket. At the checkout page, scroll down to the ‘order notes’ at the bottom of the page and add the image name of your desired print, for example – ‘Toon Army o1’ (The image name appears under the photo when viewing the gallery). Then complete order. Any problems, please email hello@lowerblock.com.

All prints come unframed as standard.

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