What does it mean to support a club?
Michael Leunig 'EVERY MAN IS AN ISLAND'
The final weekend of September heralds an important day for Australian Rules football - the Grand Final is upon us. Wherever you go in Melbourne this week there is a buzz of anxious anticipation in the air. Even for those more enthused by the promise of a public holiday, it is undeniable that this passion is infectious. But why do people support the teams that they do? Is it simply just for entertainment, or is it something more?
Although the camps of art lovers and sports enthusiasts often sit diametrically opposed, there are some notable instances of cross-inspiration. From game-winning goals after the siren to the heroism of the underdog, it is no wonder that these theatrical moments often feature in works of art - the most notable being Sidney Nolan’s ‘Footballer’, a permanent fixture of the NGV Australia.
Reg Mombassa 'Kengarewe with Football'
What does it mean to belong to a club? There is something significant that happens in the donning of a scarf - something symbolic held within the binary stripes and simple patterns of a team’s colours. To many, choosing a football team means belonging to a community, taking the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life.
Michael Leunig 'Untitled (Killer Cat)'
Where many of us would consider art to be a universal language, in many ways the same can be said about sports. As we might witness a work on the wall of the NGV and discuss aesthetic value, sports too have their own vocabularies. Although not particularly refined, barracking language offers fans an opportunity to analyse what they are watching, offering opinions from the comfort of their seats.
Mike Nicholls 'Back Seat Driver'
So whether you will be tuning into the Grand Final this weekend, or you will take the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate, we wish all of our collectors a joyful long weekend. And as always, may the best team win!
Important note about upcoming opening hours: Due to AFL Grand Final public holiday, the gallery will be closed on Friday the 26th and re-opening on Saturday the 27th.
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