Richmond players will embrace the 2011 Dreamtime at the ‘G clash with Essendon on Saturday night by wearing specially-themed guernseys.
The famous yellow sash on the Tigers’ jumper will feature a design by local Indigenous artist Jirra Lulla Harvey.
"The Dreamtime at the G is a great celebration of the wonderful contribution the Indigenous community has made to our game," Richmond CEO Brendon Gale said.
"We think the artwork incorporated into our iconic sash adds to this celebration and demonstrates our on-going commitment to this game and the role football can play in closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australia."
Pre-order your 2011 Richmond Dreamtime guernsey
Harvey is a Yorta Yorta/Wiradjuri woman who was born and raised in Melbourne, on the land of the Kulin Nation.
In her work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth, she has always been impressed by the role that Indigenous AFL players have in inspiring pride and achievement.
“For the Richmond Football Club to have a contemporary, Aboriginal design on their Dreamtime jumper means a lot,” Harvey said.
Get your tickets to this weeks big Dreamtime clash against Essendon
“While Aboriginal art is diverse in style, our work tends to symbolize one thing - and that is cultural pride.”
Harvey’s design encapsulates iconic Victorian landmarks, mixed with Indigenous football themes.
“The river is representative of the Murray, which has always been integral to my people’s survival and spirituality, and the Yarra, which is equally important to the People of the Kulin Nation, and can be seen from the MCG,” Harvey said.
“The footballs on either side of the river mimic the shape of shields used by Aboriginal warriors.
“Aboriginal football players are not only great athletes, but are often seen as local heroes and community ambassadors. For our young people who look up to these men, AFL stars are seen as contemporary warriors,” she said.
Richmond’s 2011 Dreamtime at the ‘G guernsey is available for pre-order on-line by visiting the Tigerland Superstore website, or for purchase at the MCG on Saturday night.
Proceeds from the sale of the jumper will be used to support Richmond Football Club's Indigenous programs.
