Tell us how your artwork addresses this year’s theme ’We belong’:
This artwork came about at school where we had to create a street art mural that sends a message. Soccer is part of our community, team, family and club. It’s a way of everyone to connect with each other. This doesn’t always need to be with people that play, it could be with people around the world, bringing that sense of belonging. We belong to a lot of different groups and places, you feel connected and supporting their national team. Like in the world cup this connects people around the world, bringing that sense of belonging. We belong to a lot of different groups and places, that you feel connected and supported. There will be ups and downs, like in soccer with the wins and losses. When I “Belong”, I feel connected.
Tell us about the ideas or themes your artwork explores with the theme ‘We belong’:
The main ideas that my artwork explores is equity and inclusion. The Matildas strive to achieve equal pay and recognition. They welcome new players and allow people feel included and like they “Belong”. When I play soccer, I feel included in my team, my club and my community. When I play soccer, I feel like I belong. My artwork also explores ideas of perseverance, persistence, trust and the importance of believing in yourself and your teammates. To conclude my artwork expresses the many emotions in soccer around “Belonging”.
What type of art have you submitted and why? :
The artwork I have submitted is watercolour, pen and digital. I chose this medium because I like the pastel look of the watercolours outlined with pen to give the outline definition. I used digital for the text in sharp contrast to the pastel colours of the players.
Anything else you’d like to add?
In 2024, I submitted a photograph to our local regional annual show. I really enjoyed exhibiting my art and seeing all of the other entries. I didn’t get a prize, but it was a really good experience. This is the first time I have exhibited my artwork in a national competition. I always like putting myself out there to try experience new things and find belonging in new communities. I want to be able to be connected to the heart of hearing/deaf community and I believe this will help me to feel I belong more.
