Almanac Art: Dreamtime for a Canadian

 

 

In 2018 preparations for the Dreamtime match between Essendon and Richmond had a different twist to them with the introduction of VFL Women’s teams at both clubs. Now, not only were the men scheduled to clash at the ‘G’, but an inaugural VFLW Dreamtime game was set to take place prior, at Punt Road (currently known as the Swinburne Centre). Selected in the side against the mighty Tigers, I was excited and humbled by the occasion with a thirst for more information…

 

In anticipation for the Dreamtime clash, the Essendon FC had invited down the artist responsible for the creation of their dreamtime jumper – Arthurina Moreen – as well as two of her Tiwi Bombers teammates Freda and Julie. These three joined us in training for the week out on the track. Even though at first they seemed somewhat apprehensive and quiet, the young women were not out of place and exhibited sharp skills and natural athleticism.

 

I introduced myself to Arthurina after recognising her from the video Essendon had posted regarding the reveal of the Dreamtime Guernsey (http://www.essendonfc.com.au/news/2018-05-07/dreamtime-guernsey-revealed) and chatted to her about my love for her design brilliance. “Rina’s” artwork and story from the video had inspired me to look further into the stories and meaning behind the Indigenous designs and the local interpretations of colour.

 

Essendon FC players Michaela Long, Courtney Ugle and Danielle Ponter were gracious enough to share their stories and convey more of their journey and what the weekend meant to them – tradition, family, remembrance, and working for change stood forth in my mind. I wanted to do more, to know more. I have also talked to people I know about Indigenous cultures: a friend and previous trainer, Bobbie Lee Blay, who had family from the stolen generation; my sister-in-law, who has studied and speaks an aboriginal language and knows much of the aboriginal cultures back in Canada (as my Canadian knowledge also remains thin). Although I remain ignorant, I hope I am making ground.

 

I feel honoured to have been able to share this journey with my Essendon FC teammates. I wanted to thank Michaela, Courtney and Danielle for sharing their stories and enlightening myself and others as to what this week meant to them, and by helping me  understand some of the history behind it. I hope I have honoured them in paint, and off the top of my boot while draped in Arthurina’s Essendon artwork.