The artistic reputation of the Walcha region continues to grow following the opening of the UNE Schools Art Prize (UNESAP) 2018 ‘Let’s hang it!’ exhibition at the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) last Friday night.
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Six students living in the Walcha region were selected to be included in the show of 60-plus finalist works, and one of them was a runner-up in the primary school category.
Considering the competition received 528 artworks from 64 schools from across northern New South Wales, the Walcha cohort did very well. Nowendoc Public School had two student works included – which is more than a third of its student population! Benson Smith was an infant section finalist, and Charlotte Laurie made the cut in the primary section.
Saint Patrick’s Primary School produced two finalists – one of which was runner-up in the primary section. Ellie Hoy was an infants section finalist, and Toby Ireland was runner-up in the primary category with his work Birdie Land.
Lacie Slater from Walcha Central School was a senior secondary finalist, and in the primary section, Katie Williams from Woolbrook Public School and Demi McCosker from Yarrowitch Public School were both finalists. Fred Street from Kentucky Public School was included in the infant's section.
“Let’s Hang It! Is one of the most anticipated and lively events in NERAM’s annual calendar,” said Rachael Parsons, Art Museum Director.
“It is a wonderful opportunity to provide recognition and exposure for emerging talent, and it is always thrilling to see the Museum filled with young artists and their families. There is so much enthusiasm and energy.”
Now in its fourteenth year, UNESAP was developed through an on-going partnership between NERAM and the University of New England. The four winning artworks will become a part of the UNE art collection.
The UNESAP exhibition will be on display until August 12.