Western Sydney University alum honours trailblazing Matildas with stunning new mural
Left to right: Kirthana Selvaraj, Artist, Kyah Simon, Matildas and Sydney FC and The Hon. Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales
The triumphant Matildas have been celebrated with a striking new artwork created by Western Sydney University alumna, contemporary artist Kirthana Selvaraj.
The artwork, recently unveiled by NSW Premier Chris Minns, celebrates the Matilda’s resilience, strength and triumph during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
Kirthana’s work is set to be transformed into a 57-metre-long immersive mural that will extend across the exterior of the Cathy Freeman Stand at Accor Stadium in Sydney.
It is the first mural in a new series that will commemorate the greatest moments in sport and entertainment at the Stadium, which is celebrating 25 years since the 2000 Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Kirthana is a proud alum of the University, having completed a Master of Art Therapy.
She said the landmark work is so much more than a painting – it is an opportunity to break down barriers and stereotypes regarding women as athletes.
“It’s about making sure these stories – of struggle, perseverance, and triumph – are seen and shared.
My hope is that this artwork ignites a spark in young people everywhere, showing them that they, too, can achieve greatness,’’ Kirthana said.
The vibrant artwork, which has been nearly 18 months in the making, is painted in oil and draws inspiration from the Matilda’s energy, spirit, and the pioneering women who came before.
The inclusion of blues and teals, introduced in the team’s new kits during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, alongside the Matildas’ traditional yellows and greens, symbolizes a harmony of past, present, and future.
According to Kirthana the colour palette takes its cues from Cathy Freeman’s iconic running suit at the 2000 Sydney Olympics – a deliberate nod to an inspirational figure whose legacy resonates with both the founding and current Matildas.
She said it has been an honour to create a painting to commemorate our national women’s football team.
“I’m deeply humbled to be part of this project. The Matildas are not just a team – they are pioneers and icons of perseverance, unity, and determination,” said Kirthana.
“This piece reflects not only the Matildas’ journey but the broader narrative of women in sport – the pioneers who paved the way and the strength of the team today.
“It’s a celebration of their courage and a reminder of what’s possible when barriers are broken.”
Premier Minns says: “It’s long overdue that our nation’s inspirational female athletes are provided appropriate recognition. The Matildas captivated the nation like never before smashing all kinds of records and inspiring a new generation of sports stars, participants and fans.
“Their game-changing tournament will be perfectly honoured with this game-changing mural which will be fittingly projected onto the Cathy Freeman Stand – the first grandstand in a major Australian stadium to be named after a female athlete.”
ENDS
7 February 2025
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