Essendon Football Club is providing Indigenous artists with the opportunity to become part of club history by designing Essendon’s 2014 Dreamtime guernsey and retail-only football.

The annual ‘Dreamtime at the ‘G’ clash between Essendon and Richmond unites communities behind the colors of red, black and yellow, encouraging all Australians to stand together and strive for reconciliation.

The specially designed guernsey will be worn by Essendon’s entire playing group on-field for the commemorative Dreamtime game against Richmond in 2014. Both the guernsey and football featuring the winning designs will be produced and retailed exclusively through the club.

The guernsey is to remain black with the traditional red sash but will feature art reflecting Essendon’s partnership with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

This design competition gives Indigenous artists the opportunity to be uniquely involved in the AFL’s Indigenous Round in 2014 – also a significant year for The Long Walk, marking ten years since Essendon legend Michael Long set out on his historic walk to Canberra in 2004.

Essendon defender Courtenay Dempsey said the initiative was an exciting opportunity for all established and emerging Indigenous artists.

“Next year is the tenth anniversary of ‘Dreamtime at the ‘G’ and we are excited to invite our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander partners to design the limited edition guernsey and football,” Dempsey said.

“The Dreamtime match carries extra significance for myself and the Indigenous players in the competition and every year the Dreamtime game grows and gets bigger which is really important.

“The brothers will be proud to play for our community wearing such a deadly jumper.”

The winning artist(s) will be honoured by having their name featured within the design of the product as well as attending Essendon Football Club’s 10^th Anniversary Dreamtime match at the MCG in 2014. In addition, a team-signed version of the winning product will also be awarded.    

The competition closes on August 17 and winners will be announced on the club website via essendonfc.com.au.

Click here to read the Design Brief and Terms and Conditions.

Click here for the Dreamtime Guernsey Template.

Click here for the Dreamtime Football Template.