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When artist Kamsani Achil Bin Salleh received the call up to create a mural inside the walls of Optus Stadium for AFL Origin he knew it needed to feel larger than life.

“I have always drawn, but I didn’t think I could claim the title as an artist,” he said.

“Eventually I realised it wasn’t arrogance; it was accepting a gift as people wanted me to bring their visions to life.”

“Origin is about legends of the game, for kids, even adults these players are heroes, so I wanted the mural to feel like you’re standing in front of giants.”

Titled ‘Homegrown’, the legacy mural captures the deep pride in representing your while honouring the respect gained through competition, proudly supported by the WA Government through Tourism WA and the AFL.

Originally, he imagined a single player inspired by his own brother, but the process guided him toward a more symbolic clash.

“I wanted viewers to feel greatness was within reach and to aspire to that.” 

AFL Origin gets underway at Optus Stadium Saturday 14 February. 

“Origin is about competition, rivalry, state against state,” he said.

“So I went with 2 ruckmen, without the footy in the picture it almost looks like a high five but once the ball’s there, it becomes friendly competition.”

“I see me and my brother in it... football was a safe space for us, it’s competition, but it’s also mentorship, camaraderie and belonging.”

On game day, he hopes the mural sparks something in fans and especially young people.