The latest work from one of London's foremost painters was unveiled today (15 April) at The National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, by the city’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Randall Brew.

The oil painting, entitled Service Above Self, has been produced by artist Rosa Branson to celebrate the 100th Convention of the Rotary International organisation, set to take place at The NEC in June 2009. Commissioned by Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, the work depicts the many humanitarian projects carried out by more than two million Rotary volunteers in over 200 countries around the world.

The painting features global campaigns supported by Rotary, including the Polio Eradication Programme, Literacy, Health, Hunger and Water. Other charities which have been represented are Sight Savers, the Institute of Cancer Research, Impact, the Wheelchair Foundation, Shelterboxes and the Rotary Foundation.

The unveiling, which took place in The NEC's Piazza Suites, was attended by members of the Rotary International 2009 Convention Promotions Committee, alongside representatives from Marketing Birmingham and Advantage West Midlands.

Michael Watton, Sales Director, NEC Exhibitions and Conferences said: 'This painting will be on display in the heart of The NEC's vibrant Piazza until next June, and marks the start of a countdown to the biggest conference in our calendar. It is a great privilege to welcome Rotary, which is a truly international event, back to The NEC – as the centenary conference, this is a very special event.'

Rosa, who first encountered the work of Rotary on a trip to Sierra Leone, said: 'I have always loved working on a big scale and my training has enabled me to be able to paint anything. My thematic paintings for charity allow me to blend contemporary real issues with the techniques of the Renaissance painters. I feel have found this amazing world and each time I paint one charity painting it leads to another'.

Peter Offer, Vice President of Rotary International Convention Host Organising Committee in Great Britain and Ireland said: 'On behalf of Rotarians I would like to thank Rosa for this very generous gift of an extraordinary painting. It will help raise awareness of the work of Rotary and will also help raise funds for The Rotary Foundation.'

A limited edition print of the painting is on sale to raise funds for the Rotary Foundation.
Over 25,000 delegates from around the world are expected to attend the convention.