The final piece of the 1984/85 painting has now been revealed. Jamie Cooper is currently putting the finishing touches on this magnificent oil-painting and a limited-edition print run will be available.
The framed prints include the signatures of the 84/85 Premiership team as well as coach Kevin Sheedy. The Club is now taking pre-orders and they are selling quickly, so if you want to secure your print order now.
Jamie Cooper made the following comments on the final section of the painting.
""Paul Weston’s nickname was 'Wealth' as he was always coming up with get rich schemes. Here he sits in front of his locker full of bank notes and a money jacket, a get rich book at his side and collecting a wad of cash from Leon Baker, no doubt to invest it wisely on his behalf!,"" Cooper said.
""Leon Baker was a more laid back type who preferred to remain out of the limelight. Rather than join in the week long, premiership 'piss up' he was on a plane out of the country to trek in Sri Lanka, the day after the 84 Grand Final. Note the Qantas ticket in his left hand.
""Peter Bradbury and Bomber Thompson are the last to return from the field of victory arm in arm, to a spray of champagne from the group’s practical joker Alan Ezard.
""Rodger ‘the dodger' Merrett looks mean, even in celebration. His elbow is heavily strapped as it gets a lot of use.
""Paul Salmon (fish) keeps a steady hand on the cup as Tony 'the trout' Elshaugh fools around and, as usual has his mouth open.""
Jamie made the following comments on the finished product.
""The all-conquering Bombers of the mid Eighties were feared and respected by their opponents for their skill and toughness,"" he said.
""They were also much loved by the Essendon faithful because of their lovable and larger than life characters. Predominantly a bunch of down to earth lads lead by a tough blue-collar coach, who combined to be near unbeatable during the back-to-back years of 84 – 85.
""Here combined, are all the players who participated in both flags, letting down their hair in the MCG change rooms.""
After extensive consultation with several players of the day, artist Jamie Cooper has transported us back in time and placed us in the inner sanctum of this wild bunch at one of the most memorable moments in Bomber history.
""Stories from this era are part of the Club’s folklore, some of which are woven into the scene exposing some of the player’s unique personalities,"" he said.
