UNLEASHING STRONG ENERGIES

MORE than 80 senior art students will have their work showcased at the Arts Centre Gold Coast’s Energies exhibition.

Opening on October 27, no topic is off limits, as the students address issues relating to body image, self-identity, sexism and depression.

Energies has been providing a platform for students to show their unique techniques and styles – from traditional paintings on canvas and multimedia installations to ceramic sculptures and elaborate textile creations – for more than 30 years.

For most students, it marks their first opportunity to display work in a public gallery.

Gold Coast City Gallery director Tracy Cooper-Lavery said she was impressed by the high standard of artwork featured this year.

“Every year Energies provides a valuable opportunity for young artists to present work to their peers, visitors and the art community,” she said.

“The quality of work annually continues to develop and grow and is testament to the creative energy and skill produced within our local schools.

“Teachers play a huge role in making this exhibition what it is, they undoubtedly do an incredible job mentoring these students and honing their skills.

“The exhibition provides a fantastic platform for students to develop as artists ... many of the alumni from Energies over the last 30 years have gone on to have successful careers in the arts.”

All exhibition works are selected by the visual arts teachers from each participating school, with a number of state and non-state schools getting involved in the exhibition.