The Impact of Indigenous Art on Athletic Identity

Create something meaningful with me together, we can make a real difference in the lives of First Nations people. -Danielle Leedie Gray

Here at SCODY we have been fortunate enough to be blessed with a stunning collection of cycling jerseys as part of a collaboration with Danielle Leedie Gray. In this article we will be exploring the works of Danielle her line of cycling jerseys and what her art means to the First Nations peoples of Australia. Through her artistry we hope to connect athletes with their heritage.

Behind the Works of Danielle Leedie Gray

Danielle Leedie Gray is an accomplished Australian artist who uses her works to promote appreciation for culture while creating a sense of respect for the First Nations people.

Danielle aims to highlight the importance of family spiritual journey and connection to the land as well as representing her interpretation of her cultural heritage through her works.

More On Danielle’s Heritage

Danielle Leedie Gray is a proud First Nations woman who originates from the Bidjara and Wakka Wakka Country of South West and East Queensland Australia.

Alongside being a passionate and talented artist Danielle is also an important mouthpiece for First Nations people as she enjoys running workshops on her people's culture. Here at SCODY we were lucky enough to attend one of her most recent workshops!

Truth Telling and Sharing Hopes

Within her most recent workshop Danielle introduced us to the concept of a Yarning (compassion) circle and a Yarning stick. The Yarning stick is used to represent the power of communication and how important reconciliation is to society.

Within Aboriginal traditions message sticks are used to communicate between different clans  and nations and language groups. These days people like Danielle use the Yarning stick as a tactile aid for empowering communication.

Danielle’s SCODY Collaboration

When designing cycling jerseys for SCODY Danielle Leedie Gray wanted to pay tribute to the heritage and traditions of the First Nations people. Through this tribute she aimed to inspire a sense of respect and a strong appreciation for culture. Let's take a look at her designs!

Custodians of the Land

Custodians of the Land is a jersey designed by Danielle that pays homage to the idea that we are all caretakers striving to protect our country. Australia needs us now more than ever to take care of its stunning landscape and wildlife which is exactly the kind of thinking Danielle hopes to inspire with this cycling jersey.

Family

Adorned with rainbow shaped symbols the Family jersey represents the constant ebbs and flows of a family dynamic. Danielle has perfectly captured the ups and downs that come with a well connected family making this cycling jersey the perfect choice for your loved ones.

Gumbi Gumbi

For this cycling jersey Danielle took inspiration from the Australian Native Gumbi Gumbi plant. The Gumbi Gumbi plant has been used by First Nations people as an herbal and medicinal remedy for a whole variety of ailments. The nickname of this plant is the healing plant!

Journey

For cyclists Journey is a pretty powerful word. Whether you use your bicycle for literal journies or whether you're taking part in the journey that is cycling sport it's important to enjoy the ride and not just focus on the destination. This mindset is shared by both SCODY and Danielle making this cycling jersey the perfect choice for those of us stuck obsessing over the final result of something!

Why Danielle’s Designs Are So Important

When you're choosing a cycling jersey you will obviously obsess over the technical capabilities of fabrics or the optimum positioning of the back pockets and it can be easy to overlook the visual aspect of your kit.

Danielle's cycling jerseys really help to capture the energy of the First Nations people inspiring those in the cycling community who seek much needed representation.

When you shop SCODY you know you're getting quality products so why not treat yourself to an outstanding design with an excellent message as well?

Support Australian Artists

Don't forget to check out our other blog posts on our Australian artist's collaborations too! Treat yourself to a great new cycling jersey while supporting Australian artists!

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