The talent and creativity of our local VCE students will be celebrated as part of the Central Goldfields Art Gallery's latest exhibition – Emergent 2025.
The exhibition will be officially opened on Friday 24 October at 5pm.
Everyone is welcome to attend the opening of this annual exhibition which showcases the diverse artwork of local VCE students from Highview College and Maryborough Education Centre.
Central Goldfields Mayor Cr Grace La Vella said Emergent was one of the Gallery's most loved and attended exhibitions every year.
"For the students the exhibition is a culmination of their secondary school education. It's a chance to gain insight into these young people's journeys as they continue to grow, create and change the world.
"Visitors can expect a diversity of mediums, a fusion of old and new technologies and thought-provoking subject matter that reflects the interests of this next generation.
"I encourage everyone to come along and experience the talent, creativity and unique perspectives of our local VCE students – as always it is an exhibition not to be missed."
Maryborough Education Centre quotes
Sarah Moyle - VCE Arts Student:
"Art is important to me because it becomes a reality that doesn't need to survive. I can create what I want, and it doesn't have to go anywhere. For me, art functions as a creative hobby that allows me to disconnect from the world around me. In school and in the community, art connects us and allows us to create shared experiences and long-lasting memories."
Jennifer Latch – Arts Coordinator, Maryborough Education Centre
"The Arts are fundamental for our school and community. They provide our students with unique ways to understand and express the world around them. Our year 12 students' exhibition is a celebration of their hard work and creativity. It's an opportunity for them to share their unique perspectives and enrich the cultural fabric of our community. This event isn't just a display of talent; it's a vital connection between our students and the community that supports them."
Anna Robb – Art Teacher, Maryborough Education Centre:
"Art is a celebration of ideas, creativity and community. Creating art supports creative and critical thinking in which students can problem solve, explore and experiment and express themselves as well as challenge their own ideas and explore new ones. Looking at artworks from different cultures and countries opens the world to students and the many different perspectives people have. Art brings people and communities together".
Olivia Bouchier – Years 7–12 Arts & Design Teacher:
"Fostering creativity in our young people is a joy and a privilege. Developing students' ability to think and act imaginatively builds confidence, self-belief and agency to positively impact the world around them. This exhibition is an opportunity for our community to celebrate the incredible work our students have achieved this year and reflect on the strength of their creativity and imagination."
Highview College quotes
Tara Webb, Year 12 student:
"I loved exploring and experimenting with all the amazing art resources at Highview College. They helped me grow into a confident designer and artist—and yes, I'll definitely miss the endless supplies and surprises tucked away in the Art storage!"
Isabella Wagstaff, Year 12 VCD student:
"Studying VCD has given me the chance to explore and experiment with a wide range of creative methods, giving me a genuine taste of what it feels like to work as a real designer."
Hisu Lee, Head of Arts:
"What a year! Classrooms have been filled with creativity, laughter, and just the right amount of stress. Our talented students have grown into remarkable young men and women, and I have no doubt that their creativity will continue to shape bright and inspired futures."
This exhibition is free to visit and will be on display at Central Goldfields Art Gallery until 23 November 2025.
Central Goldfields Art Gallery is in the Old Fire Station, 1 Neill Street, Maryborough.
The Gallery is open from Thursday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm, and entry is free.
