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Artist Bio

Nicky Winmar

Nicky Winmar

Neil Elvis (Nicky) Winmar is well-known for his stellar AFL career, and the courageous stance he made against racism in sport in 1993. A proud Nyoongar man, he grew up in Wilman country before being recruited to South Fremantle at age 16, then played for StKilda Football Club (12 years) and Western Bulldogs (1 year).

Nicky became interested in art after the statue of him that is now at Perth Optus Stadium was made. He has been painting since late 2018, exploring many different styles and techniques, settling on a contemporary approach, inspired by the landscapes and colours of country, but using abstract techniques like Jackson Pollock. He often incorporates Djitti Djitti (willy wagtail) which is his family totem into his paintings.

In 2021 he designed the indigenous round guernseys for StKildaFC, including elements from his paintings - Djitti Djittis, abstract strips on the front and his hand stencils on the back. The guernseys sold out with each issue, and the design was rejigged by the club for AFL and AFLW games in 2022.

Nicky’s art has been selling to fans and art collectors alike, through auction and private sale, the Mitchelton Gallery in Nagambie Victoria, and now with Yungarra Gallery.

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