Spectators at Heritage Bank Stadium on the Gold Coast will be welcomed into the stadium by the venue’s newest cultural initiative, an Indigenous mural titled People First.
Designed by Bundjalung Artist Christine Slabb and commissioned on behalf of Heritage Bank, People First is an artwork piece inspired by the various experiences of groups of people within the stadium on an event day. The artwork is situated inside Gate 1 at Heritage Bank Stadium and was on display for the first time at the AFL Round 3 match against the Geelong Cats.
“I took inspiration from a personal perspective of coming to the stadium for an event and the pre-event activities that happen,” Slabb said. Represented in the artwork are the numerous groups of people in the stadium on a Game Day including players, spectators, back-of-house staff and volunteers. The waterways that surround the venue also feature prominently. “Some of the elements including people queuing up, in the rooms preparing themselves for the event and then the anticipation of people wandering through the stadium, looking for their seats, getting their food and beverages and getting ready to support their team,” Slabb continued.
Heritage Bank and People’s Choice CEO Peter Lock said, “The mural provides a stunning focal point that celebrates the sea, sky and sand of the Gold Coast. It also reinforces the importance of connection, culture, community, and the ongoing spirit of reconciliation. “The design reflects a narrative of the Heritage Bank Stadium as a welcoming, inclusive place that brings together people from all walks of life. “As a member-owned bank, our people first philosophy is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re delighted to share this with the Gold Coast SUNS through the mural and the stadium’s diverse range of community events and initiatives.”
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