The ‘VCE Next Gen 2021’ exhibition at the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery opened to a limited audience last Friday. This was due to the restrictions imposed by the coronavirse ordel. Exhibiting students could only select one guest to bring. Teacher were giving a preview the the night before, but missed catching up with their old students at the formal event. Next Gen 2021 showcases the creative endeavours, from government, Catholic and Independent schools from Ballarat and its broader region, in VCE Art, Studio Arts, Design and Technology, Visual Communication and Design and Media. While 2020 had been a very difficult one for students, they continued to work and create, and this Next Gen exhibition debatably includes work that challenges the standard of previous years.

Congratulations to the students representing Damascus College. Our talented participants from the class of 2020 include Sofie Sawka (who created an entire graphic novel from scratch), Kiara Powers and her eerie, perfectly processed photo of abandoned house, and Charlotte Grimes with her photographic series capturing the new reality experienced living in ‘shut down’ during the pandemic.

Studio Arts Photography student Charlotte Grimes was also the winner of the innovation award at the new Gen opening. Also ‘The Ineffable’ image was successful selected from over 3000 applicants to be exhibited at TOP ART at the NGV

All entries can be seen online at: https://artgalleryofballarat.com.au/gallery_exhibitions/nextgen-2021/ where you can also vote for the people’s choice award.

The Next Gen exhibition runs until Sunday 16 May at the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

Entry is free.