Aboriginal artist Jade Dolman has ignited the power of sport in connecting communities though the creation of a stunning original artwork during a Perth Scorchers KFC Big Bash League victory at Optus Stadium.
Aboriginal artist Jade Dolman has ignited the power of sport in connecting communities though the creation of a stunning original artwork during a Perth Scorchers KFC Big Bash League victory at Optus Stadium.
Dolman, a Whadjuk/Balladong Nyoongar, Eastern Arrernte woman from Perth, painted the piece live at the Furnace during Perth’s seven-wicket win over the Hobart Hurricanes on Wednesday 18 January.
Scorchers players Chloe Piparo and Mitch Marsh also added brushstrokes to the artwork, entitled Noonakoort nidja woolah yeyi which translates as ‘everyone is here celebrating now’.
“We are on the ancient lands of the Whadjuk people and we pay our respects to our ancestors, elders and all First Nations people,” Dolman said.
“This artwork represents everyone who is here physically and in spirit to celebrate reconciliation through cricket.”
The finished piece was auctioned in support of the WA Cricket Foundation, with Perth Scorchers Major Partner Budget Direct securing the winning bid of $4,101.01.
Chief Growth Officer – Budget Direct, Jonathan Kerr, said the award-winning insurer is proud to support the WA Cricket Foundation.
“Just like the Scorchers, Budget Direct is the most successful team in our (insurance) league,” he said.
“We started off the bidding and had every intention of winning the auction, in support of such a great cause.
“The artwork is going to be proudly displayed in our Headquarters, for all to see.”
Dolman also created the Perth Scorchers Aboriginal playing shirt, the design illustrating the significance of water to Aboriginal culture and to the Perth landscape, especially at the WACA Ground.
Scorchers allrounder Marsh said the players were honoured to contribute to the artist’s latest work.
“Our whole organisation is on its own journey and for me personally, I’m on a journey learning more about Aboriginal people and our history,” Marsh said.
“This is an incredible initiative and we’re all very proud.”