Media Release: Toowoomba’s Future Artists Celebrated at St Joseph’s College Art Show

The largest showcase in the history of the St Joseph’s College Art Show took place on November 3, with approximately 400 artworks on display and more than 250 people attending.

Celebrating creativity and diversity, the showcase pieces ranged from traditional works with paint or ink to repurposing materials as wearable artwork.

Curriculum Leader of the Arts, Chrissy Dwyer said she was proud of all the students involved in the Art Show and the quality of work they produced.

“This is the biggest showcase we’ve ever had for our Art Show, with the inclusion of two new categories; the Open Entries section and the Joey’s Way Collaborative Art Project,” said Ms Dwyer.

“It’s a great way for our art students to shine and get praise and feedback on pieces they’ve worked hard on all year.”

The Toowoomba Art Society’s Allan Bruce judged several awards presented during the evening.

Mr Bruce said he was amazed at the sheer amount and quality of works on display.

“There are some very talented young artists here tonight, which I see as a testament to the Art Department,” Mr Bruce said.

“I’ve always found at the Junior Art Expo for our Society that St Joseph’s College has a very strong display.”

“A message that I always give to parents is that having a career as an artist is a solid and viable option for some of these kids, and you should support them.”

Acting Principal Brendon Willocks said the Arts make up an important part of the curriculum at SJC, with the Art Show being one of the biggest nights in the College’s calendar.

“Our Arts Curriculum has the capacity to engage, inspire and enrich all students. We’re very lucky at SJC to have such an experienced teaching staff who encourage them to reach their creative and expressive potential.”

“We are always looking at new ways to provide our students with opportunities to get expert feedback and support like we did tonight with Allan Bruce judging tonight,” said Mr Willocks.

“We also hold incursions within the College with our skilled teachers and resources, and excursions to UniSQ so our students can experience that outside expert guidance too.”

“These students are the future of art in the Toowoomba region, and we are really excited to see what some of these young artists will achieve,” he said.

Local Artist Sheryl Faignes also donated two glorious, Australian-inspired acrylic pieces which were gifted as lucky door prizes.

Awards Winners:

Judge’s Choice – Senior: Gabbi Armstrong, Year 12

Judge’s Choice – Junior: Chloe French, Year 10

Judge’s Choice – Junior, High Commendation: Sophie Skuse, Year 10

Principal’s Choice – Senior: Giorgia Gregson, Year 12

Principal’s Choice – Junior: Abbey Wilson, Year10

People’s Choice – Open Section: Abbey Wilson, Year 10

-ENDS-

Media Contact:

Ellie Jolley

Marketing and Communications Officer

St Joseph’s College, Toowoomba

Phone: 07 46318444

Email: ejolley@sjc.qld.edu.au