The Coast Next Gen Art Exhibition has returned for its third and biggest year yet, with 39 inspiring HSC graduates from 14 participating schools on the Central Coast exhibiting work ranging from from painting and photography to sculpture and digital design.
It was launched on Friday, February 28, to an opening night crowd of more than 120 locals, with five winning HSC artists chosen by a panel of judges for their exceptional artworks.
Supported by the University of Newcastle Gallery, Central Coast Council and Bouddi Foundation of the Arts, the free exhibition will be open to the public at the University’s Ourimbah Campus Library during library opening hours until April 4.
Executive Dean of Central Coast Campus Professor Michael Bowyer said the exhibition recognised new artistic talent.
“This exhibition is part of our commitment to the Central Coast schools and extends our efforts over the past 60 years to support our communities, provide access to higher education, and open the door to diverse career opportunities for all,” he said.
“This exhibition has continued to grow with increased school and student participation across the Central Coast, showcasing an ever-expanding range of local talent and creativity.”
University of Newcastle Art Gallery Curator Gillean Shaw said the dedication shown by teachers on the Coast had helped HSC graduates thrive.
“This exhibition is one of the highlights of the year, to see the incredible talent of these young artists on the Coast is inspirational,” she said.
Bouddi Foundation of the Arts representative Joanna O’Toole said the exhibition held such an amazing standard of artworks showcasing a wide range of mediums.
“Hats off to these creative young artists from the Central Coast, and to their teachers who have brought out the best in them,” she said.
The winning artists are: Christopher Rae from St Edwards College – awarded the Bouddi Foundation for the Arts Award for the artwork Security; Jesse Parry from Kincumber High School – awarded the University Art Collection Acquisitive Award for the artwork Borderland; Mikaela Eddy from Brisbane Waters Secondary College – awarded the Eckersley’s Highly Commended Award for the artwork Home for Eternity; Paige Whittaker from Kincumber High School – awarded the Eckersley’s Commended Award for the artwork A Subtle Illusion of Certainty; and Emily Cui from Henry Kendall High School – awarded the Eckersley’s Commended Award for artwork The Plates We Eat From.
Visitors are encouraged to vote for the People’s Choice Award, which will be announced at the end of the exhibition.