Creative Arts 

Creative Arts Exhibition - it's a wrap

This year's wonderful works by our Visual Art and Design students were on display in the bustling foyer of One Forty St Georges Terrace - since our showcase's grand opening last Friday.  Behind every finished artwork lies a creative journey: ideas researched, materials tested, techniques refined and challenges overcome. The result is a dynamic and diverse exhibition that demonstrates just how much our students can achieve when curiosity is matched by commitment.

A particularly special feature of the annual exhibition is the selection of the Principal’s Loan Prizes. This year the Senior Prize was awarded to Abi Jones’ Year 12 Unit 3 artwork a pencil drawing titled ‘Cheeky Bugger’. The Junior Prize was awarded to Harshika Santhkumar, Year 9, for her print ‘Frostbite’. A Friends of St George’s prize was awarded to Evie Fourie for the striking ‘Pieces of Me’. The People’s Choice Award will be announced at Chapel.

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who helps make this annual celebration possible, including our students, staff, families, corporate community and exhibition supporters. Their enthusiasm and encouragement help create an environment in which young creatives can thrive.

An inspiring portrait artist visits 

This week we were delighted to welcome acclaimed portrait artist Melissa Clements to the school for a special painting workshop with our Year 11 ATAR Visual Arts students.

Known for her connection with the prestigious Lester Prize, Melissa brought a wealth of artistic experience, professional insight and enthusiasm to the classroom, providing students with a valuable opportunity to learn directly from a practicing artist.

Portraiture is an art form that extends far beyond simply capturing a likeness. Through values, colour, paint application and the careful observation of facial features, artists can communicate personality, emotion and identity. Melissa’s workshop encouraged students to explore these possibilities while developing their skills and confidence in traditional Renaissance painting techniques.

Working alongside Melissa, students were able to observe an experienced artist’s approach to the painting process, gain practical guidance and consider how professional artists make creative decisions. Having the opportunity to ask questions, receive feedback and learn new approaches helped students broaden their understanding of portraiture and contemporary art practice.

Connecting classroom learning with professional artistic practice helped students appreciate the possibilities of a future in creative industries while strengthening their skills as thoughtful, independent and imaginative artists. Through visiting artists, gallery excursions, exhibitions and practical studio projects, students are encouraged to engage with the wider arts community and discover the many ways that art can communicate ideas, tell stories and shape our understanding of the world.  We extend our sincere thanks to Melissa for sharing her expertise, generosity and passion for portraiture with our students. 

Ms Carol Wohlnick

Head of Creative Arts