Wagga Wagga Art Gallery's Winter exhibitions program will see the return of ARTEXPRESS alongside three ambitious exhibitions that explore installation, performance, and contemporary ceramics.
With the official launch to be held on Saturday 23 May, ARTEXPRESS showcases outstanding NSW HSC Visual Arts works and returns to Wagga Wagga for the first time since 2019, offering Riverina audiences rare access to the next generation of artists.
NSW Education Standards Authority Chief Executive Officer Paul Martin said ARTEXPRESS is a celebration of the depth and diversity of artistic talent in schools across New South Wales.
"I congratulate the many students whose works were nominated, and the 36 student works selected for exhibition at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery," Mr Martin said.
"To have your work displayed in a public gallery is a significant achievement, and graduates should take pride in being recognised for their creativity and dedication.
"Thank you to the teachers of NSW for your unwavering commitment to supporting young people and nurturing their artistic development.
"Arts education plays a vital role in fostering creative expression and developing the critical and imaginative thinking that enriches our broader communities."
Gallery Officer - Learning & Engagement Astrid Reed said "ARTEXPRESS is especially valuable to local students.
"It's an inspiring exhibition that connects young people with creative possibilities."
Launching alongside ARTEXPRESS are A New Wave of First Nations Ceramic Art by the Blak Manta Collective, HOSSEI | ESSSENSSSE, an immersive exhibition exploring healing and renewal, and Ella Barclay's It's Already Happening, which looks at the relationship between the body and modern technology.
Accessibility is a key feature of this year's program. HOSSEI's work ESSSENSSSE, co-created with accessibility consultant Sarah Empey, includes audio description, Braille, and sensory elements for blind, low vision, and neurodiverse audiences.
The launch event will be held in the Main Gallery on Saturday 23 May from 4pm with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Cheryl Penrith OAM, followed by an address from special guest Kate Dowland - ARTEXPRESS Project Officer, The Arts Unit, who will officially open the exhibition.
Wagga Wagga Art Gallery invites the community to come along and enjoy a relaxed afternoon, with opportunities to meet the artists and those involved, and connect with Wagga Wagga's creative community. Light refreshments will be served.
