Arts

ACC Logo Competition

Students with an interest in art, design and technology are encouraged to enter the ACC 2027 Art and Technology Exhibition Logo Design Competition. The competition provides students an opportunity to create the official exhibition logo. Having a design selected is a tremendous honour, as the winning logo is featured on all promotional material and becomes part of ACC history. 

The Associated Catholic Colleges (ACC) has played a significant role in the history and identity of St Patrick's College, Ballarat, with St Pat's proudly standing as one of the Foundation Members of the association in 1911 and winning the very first ACC competition that same year. The ACC continues to provide valuable opportunities for students beyond sport, including the biennial ACC Art and Technology Exhibition, held at Federation Square since 2013. 

Black Light Photography 

Art Club members recently explored a creative and fun photography activity using black light (UV light). In our darkened video studio, students experimented with fluorescent paints, transforming hazmat-style costumes into glowing works of art. 

Once the lights were turned off and the UV light was switched on, the room came alive with vivid neon colours. Students were fascinated by how different paints and fabrics reacted under the light, with some colours glowing intensely while others remained subdued. 

Using these glowing designs, students captured a series of striking photographs. Overall, it was an enjoyable and engaging experience, with students producing some fantastic images.

Year 10 Photography Students Capture the City by Night 

As dusk settled over Ballarat, a group of enthusiastic Year 10 Photography students ventured into the heart of the city for this year's much-anticipated Nocturnal Photowalk. Armed with cameras, tripods and some very warm clothes, students embraced the challenge of photographing Ballarat's iconic streetscapes after dark. 

Led by Photography teacher Mr Mark O'Callaghan, the evening was further enriched by the support of and Head of Arts, Ms Jeanean Pritchard, art teacher Ms Rebecca Warr and photography enthusiasts Ms Kathryn Mundy and Mr Chris Warr, whose passion and expertise helped inspire students throughout the excursion. 

Beginning at St Patrick's Cathedral, students explored the city on foot, discovering how familiar landmarks transform under the glow of streetlights and illuminated shopfronts. From the grandeur of the Town Hall Clock Tower to the vibrant lights of the Palace Regent Cinema and the hidden charm of Ballarat's laneways, every location offered new opportunities for creative image-making. 

Throughout the evening, students experimented with a range of photographic techniques including light trails, long exposures, and light painting. The excursion provided an opportunity to apply classroom learning in an authentic setting, encouraging students to refine their understanding of camera settings such as ISO, aperture and shutter speed while responding to the ever-changing conditions of the night. 

The annual Nocturnal Photowalk has proven to be a highlight of the Photography program at St Patrick's College. Despite the winter chill, there was plenty of enthusiasm, laughter and excitement as students captured images that captured the magic of the city night lights. 

Seamus Ryan – Tattoo Artist 

Year 10 Art students recently participated in an inspiring presentation by professional tattooist and former St Patrick’s College student, Seamus Ryan (Class of 2017). Seamus shared insights into his creative practice, offering students a detailed look at the tools, techniques, and processes involved in designing and producing tattoo art. 

During the session, students explored a range of Seamus’s work, gaining an understanding of how artistic concepts are translated into tattoo designs. He also spoke about his career pathway, the demands of the industry, and the importance of developing a strong personal style. The presentation provided students with a valuable opportunity to ask questions and learn about the realities of working as a professional artist. 

Following the presentation, students began developing their own tattoo-style artworks, applying the concepts and ideas discussed. This practical task encouraged them to think creatively while considering elements such as symbolism, linework, and composition, linking industry practice with their own artistic development.

Eloise Shirra-Gibb, Pre-Service Teacher 

It was a pleasure to have our pre-service teacher, Eloise Shirra-Gibb, join us for five weeks this semester. During her time with us, she taught across all year levels in Art and Design, demonstrating both versatility and confidence in the classroom. Eloise has a natural aptitude for teaching, with a calm and approachable temperament that fostered a respectful and supportive learning environment. Her genuine care for students was evident, and they responded to her with enthusiasm and warmth, and many were genuinely disappointed to see her leave. She will be missed by both students and staff alike. 

Term 3 Art Competition

Entries are now open for the Term 3 Art Competition themed 'The Future!'.

All art forms accepted. Submissions should be emailed to thearts@stpats.vic.edu.au and include a brief description of the artwork by Sunday, 9 August (end of Week 4). Prizes for first and second places. Good luck, artists!

Wild Botanica

In Year 9 3D Art, students created imaginative plant sculptures as part of a project called  Wild Botanica. Using wire, paper mâché, and paint, they designed large-scale plants that were dramatic, unusual, and inspired by strange or fantastical botanical forms. 

Students began with artist research and concept sketches, looking at plant-inspired contemporary artists such as Dale Chihuly, Yayoi Kusama, and Patricia Piccinini. They then built their sculptures in stages: first forming a wire frame, then adding bulk with tape and newspaper, covering the piece with paper mâché, and finally adding surface detail and bold colour.

The project encouraged students to think like both artists and inventors. Their final works could resemble carnivorous plants, alien flowers, or giant jungle species, with textures such as thorns, veins, spikes, and twisting vines. Students also completed a scientific discovery report, presenting their sculpture as a newly discovered plant species and explaining its habitat, behaviour, and artistic inspiration.