LIVERPOOL.- Two new items joined the Museum of Liverpool’s collection, on public display from 5 April 2016, marking the anniversary of the 1989 Hillsborough tragedy (15 April).

The items - a painting of actress Sue Johnston and a patchwork quilt - have a common source of inspiration; the resilience of the families of the 96 people who lost their lives during the FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest.

The painting is a remarkable portrait of actress Sue Johnston by international award-winning artist, Christian Hook. Moved by Sue’s campaign work with the Hillsborough Family Support Group (HFSG), Christian first created a conventional black and white portrait of Sue. He then completed the painting using his feet while listening to the Liverpool anthem, You’ll Never Walk Alone. The song’s emotive chorus takes on a new meaning in the context of the Hillsborough tragedy, something powerfully expressed through Christian’s work.

Christian Hook said: “I am extremely honoured to be a part of today and very proud to have Sue's portrait hung in the prestigious Museum of Liverpool, supporting a truly inspirational support group for the anniversary of the Hillsborough tragedy.”

The patchwork quilt was made from donated football shirts and skilfully crafted by Merseyside woman, Linda Whitfield. 96 Liver Birds make up the quilt and represent the lives lost, with the children poignantly remembered by a smaller Liver Bird from a child's shirt. The quilt also includes each of the victims’ names, with those who went to the match together kept close together on the quilt.

Linda Whitfield said: “In the summer of 2014 I watched the news on the families’ fight for justice on TV and it gave me inspiration for my next project. With the help from a large number of Liverpool fans my vision came to life.

“I was fortunate enough not to lose anyone in the disaster but being part of a big LFC family it has an important place in my heart.”

Janet Dugdale, Director of the Museum of Liverpool said: “We are proud to display two unique tributes that commemorate both the lives lost at Hillsborough, as well as the incredible fortitude of the families in their campaign.

“From a painting of a much-loved celebrity by an internationally-recognised artist to a local woman’s lovingly created quilt, made with donations from the community, the two objects demonstrate the admiration the Hillsborough families have gained for their determination and commitment.”

The Museum is also displaying the number ‘96’ in 3 metres high red and white lettering near the front entrance to the building.