AFL legend Gavin Wanganeen’s artwork to feature on football in indigenous round
HIS football feats inspired a generation of young stars, now AFL legend Gavin Wanganeen is hoping to encourage the next wave of indigenous artists.
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HIS football feats inspired a generation of young stars, now AFL legend Gavin Wanganeen is hoping to encourage the next wave of indigenous artists.
A quarter of a century after becoming the first indigenous player to win the Brownlow Medal, Wanganeen’s artwork will again grace the Sherrin footballs used during AFL’s indigenous round this weekend.
His unique designs, featuring 18 circles on the ball representing the AFL clubs and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players on their lists, were also used in matches during Sir Doug Nicholls Indigenous Round last season.
“It’s a really special honour for me and I’m very thankful,” said Wanganeen, who’s established himself as an artist since retiring from the game.
“I used to look up to indigenous players ... guys like Michael Long and Derek Kickett. I aspired to be like them.
“To have been a part of that legacy over the years and now during indigenous round, I feel blessed. It makes me feel really humble and very proud.”
The Port Adelaide champion and dual premiership player said he hoped the success he’s achieved in his post-football career would encourage others.
“For young artists out there, I’d say have a go. Have a look at other people’s styles to inspire you and just have a crack, because you never know where it will take you,” said Wanganeen, who’s explored his indigenous heritage through painting.
Wanganeen will be heading to the MCG this Saturday night for the AFL’s showpiece game of the round, the annual ‘Dreamtime at the ’G’ clash between Richmond and Essendon.
“It’s really great the AFL have done this and made it one of the biggest games of the season,” he said.
“It’s a great way for everyone to celebrate indigenous culture in this country.”
An Essendon premiership player in 1993, the same year he won the Brownlow Medal, Wanganeen returned home to captain Port Adelaide from 1997-2000, becoming the first indigenous player to reach a 300 AFL game milestone.
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