The GIANTS have unveiled their first-ever Indigenous jumper to be worn against Hawthorn in Round 11 and against Essendon in Round 12 as part of the 2014 AFL Indigenous Round.
The jumper design was designed by Western Sydney artist Chris (Wirriimbi) Edwards, a descendant of the Gumbaynggirr people from Nambucca Heads in northern New South Wales.
Edwards is an ambassador for the Lend Lease GIANTS Community Footprint program. The design is called ‘Hunting Grounds’ with the larger circles representing areas where Aboriginal men would go hunting together as one.
“It’s about how the Aboriginal culture reflects on the game played today, how the men go out there today and play the game,” Edwards said.
“Back in the day the Aboriginal elders used to go out hunting for food and it reflects how the boys now go hunting to win a game.
“When they used to go hunting they used to spread out and they used to hunt in a S shape like a snake to cover more ground and come back to their tribe with greater food and greater quantities.
“The boys, when they run out, if they work together they come back with a greater prize, which is a win.”
Edwards’ work is inspired by the landscape of Nambucca Heads where he grew up. His unique approach to depth and form has made him one of Australia’s most sought-after emerging Aboriginal artists.
The colour palate he uses is a mixture of traditional colours with more contemporary bright colours. Edwards has a natural ability to blend these colours to create textural effects that leap from the canvas creating a unique Australian Aboriginal design with a modern contemporary look.
Edwards said it will be a special sight to see his design on the field on Sunday afternoon.
“I’ll be honoured, it actually is an honour for anyone involved in any sport to have their artwork on a jersey that’s going to be seen across the world.”
The GIANTS will also wear their Indigenous jumper in Round 12 against the Essendon Bombers for their home clash at Spotless Stadium on June 7. As part of the GIANTS' celebrations for Indigenous Round there will be a Long Walk and on-field ceremonies at this weekend's game.
Lend Lease will be the presenting partner for the Essendon match as they continue to support the Lend Lease GIANTS Community Footprint as part of their corporate social responsibility plans. To find out more, click here.
