VCE arts showcase

By Monique Ebrington
THE creative excellence of VCE students from across the Yarra Ranges shire will be celebrated in two exhibitions this month.
Exhibitions showcasing VCE artwork will be held at the Upper Yarra Arts Centre and the Mooroolbark Community Centre from Thursday 25 February, to Thursday 11 March.
Yarra Valley resident and artist Ali Griffin is this year’s co-curator with Nicola Stairmand.
Ms Griffin said the VCE Creative Showcase, initiated by the Yarra Ranges Council, was in its third year and a valuable asset for emerging artists.
“It’s all about giving them that real experience, to participate in an exhibition,” Ms Griffin said.
“They had to fill out an administration form, like they would if they were having an exhibition at Three Stories. It’s been a bit of a challenge getting them to deal with all that, but its part of what their lives could be if they go on with their art.
“It will give them something to put on their resume to say that they have been part of a group exhibition, which is better than nothing.
It also shows that they have dealt with things that go along with being in an exhibition.”
She said more than 25 students were part of the exhibitions that features a mix of media which includes sculpture, painting, print making, photography, textiles and film.
Schools included in the exhibitions include the Little Yarra Steiner School, Upper Yarra Secondary College, Healesville Secondary College, Upwey Secondary College, Mater Christi and Monbulk Secondary College.
Residents are encouraged to visit both exhibitions to experience the exciting artwork and full breadth of creative talent about to emerge from the Yarra Ranges.
For more information on the VCE Creative Showcase please phone the Upper Yarra Arts Centre on 5966 4500 or the Mooroolbark Community Centre 9726 5488.