James to assist with Hoops Capital's search for new Indigenous artist

After five years working as Sydney Kings owner Hoops Capital's Indigenous designer, Stewart James will transition into a new role with the club, allowing him to find and mentor his successor.

During his time with the Kings and Flames, the proud Wiradjuri man from Narrandera, who first designed the club's Indigenous jerseys during the 2021-22 season, has helped strengthen the club's ties to Eora's Indigenous community and helped take their annual Indigenous Rounds to new heights.

To ensure this progress continues, James will be part of the process to find the Hoops Capital club's new Indigenous designer.

James, along with Claude Williams, one of the NBL’s first Indigenous players as well as being a former Kings head coach, and Dean Widders, the NRL's Indigenous engagement manager, will be the panel to decide who will succeed James.

“We wanted to introduce a panel to ensure a fair, collaborative decision [on the artist], that reflects diverse perspectives and community values,” James said.

“Both Claude and Dean bring deep cultural knowledge, community connection, and trusted insight into the club’s legacy and future, and we’re excited to have them part of this process.”

How to enter

The harbour city club is calling for expressions of interest from First Nations artists based in Sydney for the position, with interested individuals asked to send a video (between two and four minutes) explaining; who you are and your mob, your past artwork or creative work and your ideas for the jersey design (you don’t need a final artwork – the clubs just wants to hear your concept).

“The video process allows artists to express their story, passion, and vision authentically and directly,” James said.

“It’s essential our artist should reflect our identity, connect with our community, and help shape our evolving legacy.

"We're excited to see what submissions we receive over the next few weeks."

  As part of the process, we want artists’ designs to:

• Show how it connects to the club’s values – family, unity, strength, and resilience.
  
  
• Celebrate First Nations communities – share stories of connection, Country, or culture that inspire your artwork.
  
  
• Use the club’s colours – creatively blend the Sydney Kings’ or Flames’ colours into your design to bring it all together.

Please email all submissions to media@hoopscapital.com.au before Friday, 26 September.