Indigenous artist Billy Reynolds says his experience with the Wests Tigers has been both enriching and powerful, as we reflect on some of the many positive community stories from the past season.
Indigenous artist Billy Reynolds with Brent Naden
Reynolds first designed the club’s Indigenous jersey in 2020, while still a student participating in the NRL School 2 Work program. He was then asked to showcase his artwork on this year’s ‘run out t-shirt’ as worn by the team this season.
The 19-year-old from Maroubra brought his family along to our Round 18 home game against the Panthers, and was treated to a behind-the-scenes experience.
As well as meeting several players Billy was also introduced to the crowd and presented with a framed edition of the Indigenous training shirt that he had designed.
He says the whole experience was just amazing, “We were treated so well by the club, it was just an awesome experience the whole day.
To be given the framed gift was brilliant and being interviewed on the field by Brent Naden was a real privilege.”
The whole atmosphere, the whole day, they took really good care of us and my family felt really privileged."
Billy Reynolds
As for the artwork itself, Reynolds explains its significance, “The design is called Water flow and was inspired by the Eora and Dharawal landscape which the Wests Tigers community lays on.”
Reynolds also has a message for other young Indigenous people.
Never give up and keep pursuing your passion whether it be art or anything else."
Billy Reynolds
"I never thought I would get this type of opportunity, but you just never know when it might happen. Follow your passion because it could take you a long way.”
