Stories weave their way through the paintings and drawings, sculptures and textiles of works on display at this year's First Class art exhibition.
Some are subtle, others strike like a sledgehammer, reflecting the artist's life experiences, hopes, dreams and observations of the world around them.
Now in its 17th year, First Class showcases some of the best works from across the Hunter and Central Coast by the previous year's HSC students.
Merewether High School student Jessica Kelly's artwork, Hypermnesia, tells a tale of growth and struggle, providing a kind of visual timeline of her possessions from early childhood to today.
But interspersed among the colourful toys and trinkets are items that don't quite belong: prescription medication, an intravenous fluid bag hanging on a hospital hook and a 'get well soon' balloon.
"When I started Year 12 I got really ill and I wasn't really sure what was happening, and I couldn't get a diagnosis so it was a pretty difficult time," Kelly said.
"That was happening at the same time as I was figuring out my major work. I got a diagnosis of an autoimmune disease and it sort of clicked with me that this is what I should do for my major work."
"So it's about how you come to terms with having a chronic illness and how you don't let that illness take over your life – you just let it intertwine with the person you already are."
Museum of Art and Culture, yapang, Curator Jasmine Kean said this year's First Class exhibition was "an expression of these young artists, commenting on walking through life and the challenges of their age".
"First Class 2024 showcases the talent that our young people in the community have, and how they have applied themselves to creating a body of work on a theme," she said.
Whitebridge High School 2024 HSC graduate Matisse Murray's fabric and textile work, the sum of its parts, features hand-stitched panels depicting the human anatomy.
"I created this work from my own personal experiences and emotions," she said.
"It replicates the rawest form of the human body."
Veteran Visual Arts teacher, HSC marker and Guest Curator Karen Gilbertson said the 49 selected works "embody conceptual depth and technical excellence".
"The themes explored are as diverse as the media, ranging from personal and intimate reflections to universal issues that resonate across cultures," she said.
"These works examine identity, history, humanity, connection to place and the natural world, demonstrating the power of art to provoke thought and spark conversation."
"Through their unique voices, these young artists challenge, inspire, and connect us, reminding us of art's enduring role in shaping how we see ourselves and the world."
First Class 2024 is on display at MAC yapang until 6 April. Entry is free.
Go to mac.lakemac.com.au
