The University of Newcastle is proud to present the inaugural Coast Next Gen Art Exhibition on the Central Coast, which invites the community to come together in celebration and support of young emerging artists.
Proudly supported by the Central Coast Council, the exhibition boasts contributions including paintings, photography, sculpture and digital design by 22 HSC graduates selected from seven schools across the Central Coast.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Vice-President, Professor Mark Hoffman, highlighted the importance of events such as this not only for the individuals participating, but for arts and the community.
"The inaugural Coast Next Gen Art Exhibition is an invaluable opportunity for the community to come together to lift up their young people, and art in the region," Professor Hoffman said.
"We are proud to deliver the first event of this kind on the Central Coast, and we encourage members of the public to come along and be inspired by the next generation of local artists."
Kirrily Harvey, Principal of TLSC The Entrance Campus explained the potential of the event to have a positive impact on students.
"The Coast Next Gen Art Exhibition provides an opportunity for our talented students to showcase their outstanding work. Our students are honoured to have artworks selected for the event," said Ms. Harvey.
"This event at the University highlights the importance of art in our region and the partnerships between schools and the University to develop pathways for our next generation."
Local participating artist, Harrison Hirst of Kincumber High said he was proud to have the opportunity to showcase his work in the local community.
"To me, being part of this exhibition is not only a thing of joy and pride in my work, but also my Aboriginal culture. I hope I can prompt conversations about the experiences of Indigenous peoples, and our shared history," Harrison said.
Looking forward to the future, Harrison said, "I would love to embark into the film industry, perhaps in directing, concept design or writing."
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO emphasised the importance of the event to inspire young people on the Central Coast and reaffirm the University's commitment to the Coast, now and into the future.
"We are committed to providing a wide range of opportunities for our next generation on the Central Coast – whether it's in the arts, or through some of our other offerings, such as through the University of Newcastle Central Coast Clinical School or the enabling pathway programs we provide at our Ourimbah campus," said Professor Zelinsky.
"We know that young people on the Central Coast are capable of great things and our University is here to help students achieve their dreams. We hope that no matter what you want to study, or the career path you want to follow, know that there is a place for you at the University of Newcastle."
The exhibition will be held at the University of Newcastle's Ourimbah campus Library and will be open to the public from Monday 13 February until Friday 21 April. Visitors are invited to vote for the People's Choice award, which will be announced at the end of the exhibition.
