ArtNow

ArtNowPinnacles Gallery

23 August – 14 September 2014

PUBLISHERGallery Services, Townsville City CouncilPO Box 1268Townsville, Queensland 4810 Australiapinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au+61 7 4773 8871

© Gallery Services, Townsville City Council and the authors 2014

Exhibition organised byGALLERY SERVICES

Shane Fitzgerald Manager Gallery ServicesEric Nash Curator Gallery ServicesJo Stacey Team Leader Administration Gallery ServicesMichael Pope Exhibitions and Collections CoordinatorAmber Church Education and Programs CoordinatorRob Donaldson Digital Media and Exhibition Design Coordinator Sarah Welch Public Art OfficerAlex Shapley Exhibitions OfficerHolly Grech-Fitzgerald Collections Management OfficerTegan Ollett Education and Programs OfficerCarly Sheil Digital Media and Exhibition Design OfficerGillian Ribbins Administration OfficerWendy Bainbridge Administration OfficerDanielle Berry Arts OfficerMichelle Littman Gallery AssistantPatricia Dunn Gallery AssistantDamian Cumner Gallery AssistantRurik Henry Gallery Assistant

Pinnacles Gallery20 Village Blvd, Townsville QLD 4817 (07) 4773 8871 pinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au www.bit.ly/pinntcc @TCC_Pinnacles /PinnaclesTCC

Opening HoursTuesday - Sunday: 10am - 5pmMonday Closed

Published on the occasion of the exhibition

Pinnacles Gallery23 August - 14 September 2014

Registration teamMichael Pope / Amber Church / Tegan Ollett

Publication design and developmentCarly Sheil / Amber Church / Tegan OllettTypeset in 7 - 12pt Droid Serif (text)Edo (title and headings)Photography: All photography by school staff and students

Gallery acknowledgementsGallery Services would like to acknowledge the generous support and assistance of Townsville City Council in realising this exhibition.

A special thankyou to Melinda Gould, Regional Coordinator for Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art. Thanks also to all participating schools, teachers and students:

• Bowen State High School (Bowen)• Gilroy Santa Maria College (Ingham)• Heatley Secondary College (Townsville)• Home Hill State High School (Home Hill)• Kirwan State High School (Townsville)• Northern Beaches State High School (Townsville)• Pimlico State High School (Townsville)• Saint Margaret Mary’s College (Townsville)• Saint Patricks College (Townsville)• Townsville Grammar School (Townsville)• William Ross State High School (Townsville)

ArtNow

Artnow

ArtNOW is an exhibition of works by senior students from the north Queensland region; delivered as part of Gallery Services’ Creative Classrooms Program. This annual exhibition is the result of ongoing collaboration between Gallery Services and secondary schools across the north.

The exhibition is open to all students who are currently studying any Authority or Non-Authority Creative Arts subject in Year 11 or 12. Students are given no restrictions on subject matter or mediums and the exhibition is inclusive of all art forms.

Participants in the exhibition learn important skills in transitioning from student to practising artist, including how to submit work for an exhibition, prepare artwork for display, and how to articulate their concepts and processes.

ArtNOW recognises the creativity and diverse talents of young and emerging artists within our community. This year’s exhibition is no exception with 59 student works from 11 secondary schools on display.

Gallery Services is proud to support and showcase the work of our latest creative generation.

Amber ChurchEducation and Programs Coordinator

Gallery Services

Mitzi ANNANDBowen State High School

Horses, Self, Purity [detail] 2014 Clay

I have created a horse to represent myself as I have grown up riding horses. It is where I feel most at home and most connected to my true identity. Using my favourite medium, clay, I designed a hollow horse with a hidden white figure to show the pure part of my identity that is always relaxed, centred and happy when surrounded by horses.

Siu FITIKeFUBowen State High School

Self Portrait [detail] 2014 Charcoal and ink

My self-portrait, using charcoal and variations of green ink, is a reflection of the connection I have with nature. I am at peace when I am immersed in greenery.

KAITLYN GOULDBowen State High School

Window in Time [detail] 2014 Mixed media in reclaimed window frame

This artwork is separated into three sections to represent three generations of women in my family. Objects from each era represent the expectations of women over time. I believe women are strong and independent and having a prominent female influence is important. My mother and grandmother have both been strong influences in my life and identity.

Karla PADILLABowen State High School

Self Portrait [detail] 2014 Pencil and charcoal on paper

Within this study of myself I have begun to explore the potential path of my future. I combine both graphite and charcoal to represent the divergent paths in front of me. Graphite is sturdy, reliable and precise while charcoal is its wild counterpart, bold, daring and dramatic. Which will I be?

Evelyn PUPUNHATOABowen State High School

Self Portrait [detail] 2014 Charcoal on paper

My life has been full of experiences both positive and negative, but when I reflect back I know that all my experiences have made me what I am today. I will build on my past to create a better future.

Tania TAYLOR Bowen State High School

Fame in Detail [detail] 2014 Clay

I choose Zac Effron as a subject as he is a popular celebrity. I worked hard to achieve an accurate resemblance by focusing on Zac Effrons face in great detail. As a result, I now see him as a human with many flaws like the rest of us, using blue to suggest the fading emotions going through his mind.

Hailey JARDINEGillroy Santa Maria College

There are plenty more fish in the sea [detail] 2014 Ply, acrylic, mixed media and sticky tape

There are many women in the world but only one is the perfect match. Each of the 100 fish represents a female personality, varying from cute cheerleader to darker sad personalities. The fisherman fishes for his perfect match and he catches her, hook line and sinker. She is made from fish scales and is exactly the kind of woman he has been searching for.

Taisha Patterson-BurrGillroy Santa Maria College

The Keys of Life [detail] 2014 Assemblage, gouache and gold leaf

This piece explores the secret of life. The first opens to a landscape representing the environment, the second reveals the importance of society and relationships depicted by an Irish symbol of friendship, love and loyalty. The final key is faith, represented by the Greek Chi-Ro symbol circled by Koi Fish; the Chinese symbol for determination.

Taylah-Jane AdamsHeatley Secondary College

Cancer is not forgiving [detail] 2014 Wood, acrylic paint

This artwork is a tribute to my aunty as she died four years ago from cancer. She was the most loving and caring person who put other people’s problems before her own. The skulls and coffin signify her death caused by cancer, while the number 5 signifies my lucky number and feelings of hope.

Abubaker ELMASRI Heatley Secondary College

Wisdom is a mask [detail] 2014 Lead pencil on paper

This artwork shows that sometimes to display your wisdom you have to hide behind a mask. The owl mask symbolises wisdom. The girl wears the mask to show adults she is not a child and she has wisdom. The drawing was created using shading and blending to reproduce the different surfaces.

tien ektasaengHeatley Secondary College

Flying Love (love never stays the same) [detail] 2014 Pencil on paper

This work suggests that people should be treated with respect and love, but this love never stays the same. In the foreground of the work, a poem describes relationships like sand. Hold it loosely; with respect and freedom for the other person, it is likely to remain intact. But hold it too tightly, too possessively, and the relationship slips away and is lost.

Maddason goftonHeatley Secondary College

Serene Valley [detail] 2014 Acrylic paint on canvas (triptych)

I have created this painting using acrylic paint. I blended the paint to get a realistic effect. The message I’m trying to get across is a calm serene place where you can relax with calm waters and lovely trees. The painting works well in a triptych as your eyes follow the scene across three canvases.

Kimberley BOURKEHome Hill State High School

Death by Drought [detail] 2014 Barbed wire on timber slats

Inspired by the effects of drought, I aimed to develop a sculpture which spoke for itself. Death by Drought endeavours to capture the devastation of drought through the death of cattle. The media in this work portrays the true desolation experienced in time of drought, as barbed wire is considered to be ‘harsh’, ‘dangerous’ and ‘tough’.

Sheldan Brown Kirwan State High School

Unseen Fragments [detail] 2014 Acrylic, lino print, ink, collage

Unseen Fragments represents key aspects of my life as each layer of the palimpsest reveals a different experience. The lady represents me; the flower signifies the good and the bad, life and death. The lino print explores my New Zealand heritage and my identity. Finally the butterflies represent the passing of my mother.

Marinel dimaligKirwan State High School

Mad Milva Castle [detail] 2014 Mixed media

I have created this artwork to represent my childhood memories. The castle on the left represents my childhood dreams; as a child I would see a Disney Castle in every Disney movie. I would always think and say that ‘one day I will go to Hong-Kong and see Disney World’.

kiana dixonKirwan State High School

Grandma [detail] 2014 Lino print, acrylic, collage

My artwork is about my Grandma. It represents her drawings from university and her study of art between the years of 1983 and 1986. Her work is always about flora and fauna. The lino print in my work is my grandma’s signature. This artwork represents how she influences my life and my artwork today.

Toni DYKSTRAKirwan State High School

London [detail] 2014 Acrylic, lino print

London explores my identity, both past and present. This artwork represents my past, exploring London and appreciating the beauty of the city. The main image in my artwork is Big Ben as I stood underneath Big Ben and admired its beauty. London is my past and aspirational future as I hope to visit again next year.

Jayde GRIFFITHS Kirwan State High School

My Dad [detail] 2014 Acrylic

My artwork represents my Dad and his time in Afghanistan. My work is based on a photograph that my Dad took whilst he was serving in Afghanistan. He has a photo album of photos from his time there, but doesn’t speak much about his experience. These photos give me an insight into his life there.

Tayla HILLERKirwan State High School

West Beach 2014 Mixed media on canvas

This piece focuses on the past, present and future, represented in each of the three canvases. The past is on the left and is full of memories that cannot be changed. The middle canvas is the present featuring a path, which represents a journey. The canvas on the right is the future, rough, messy and uncertain.

Keanii LANKFORDKirwan State High School

Everybody Hurts [detail] 2014 Ceramic, mixed media

Romanticism of mental illnesses has become some sort of sickening and tasteless trend amongst younger generations, found in abundance, on the internet and throughout popular culture. Everybody Hurts confronts the viewer into grappling with the sensationalised, pretty and tacky superficiality of society against the dark hideous and gruesome truth of mental illness.

Christine laranangKirwan State High School

Game of perception [detail] 2014 Timber box, mixed media

This work is a historical, psychological and critical view on poverty. The flashcards crystallise my feelings, thoughts and personal experience about poverty. The flashcards are a game, like truth or a dare, conveying a deeper meaning. I have learnt to “treasure and appreciate what you have in life because you’ll never know when it’s gone”.

Claudia matakaiongo Kirwan State High School

Malohi [detail] 2014 Mixed media on canvas

Malohi is the Tongan word for ‘strong’. I come from a traditional culture where women have very defined roles which are still practiced today. Malohi is about my journey of gathering my inner strengths to hold on to cultural values, whilst expressing myself freely without judgment as a modern woman in this contemporary society.

Ami SATOKirwan State High School

Far Away From Home [detail] 2014 Acrylic, biro

As a Japanese exchange student, this artwork represents my experience of my exchange to Australia. The feet represent how I have been able to “stand by myself” since moving to Australia, making new friends and networks. I remember the airport when I left Brisbane for Townsville. The yellow lines signify the Brisbane train line.

Jessica spencerKirwan State High School

Schizo [detail] 2014 Plaster, timber and Perspex

Schizophrenia affects one per cent of the world’s population and it impedes a person’s perception of reality and their ability to process things the way the majority would. Schizo crystallises the complexity and fragility of our minds and highlights the fine line between sanity through medication and aberration.

Abigail clay-mashallNorthern Beaches State High School

You Are Who You Are [detail] 2014 Digital image

She is not like other people. She doesn’t want to be like all the other people in this world. She is her own person, not bound by rules or regulations, not pressured by society or their expectations. She is proud to call herself an individualist. This is what it means to be the person you are.

TAYLA DYER Northern Beaches State High School

Neptune: King of the Sea [detail] 2014 Digital image

Neptune: King of the Sea is my visual representation of the Roman God Neptune. Neptune lives in the sea, and as such, he has adapted to the surrounding aquatic environment by developing gills and scales. The serious expression on his face combined with his regal posture, radiates a powerfulness that is hard to ignore.

Jaymie EDWARDSNorthern Beaches State High School

Dirty [detail] 2014 Digital image

I have wondered why people like this image. I can’t see what it is that my friends and classmates find so appealing, particularly in the way she looks and how the image feels. To me, this was just a happy accident, a moment where the model and the camera did all the work for me.

Jessica HAWKINSNorthern Beaches State High School

Goggle [detail] 2014 Digital image

This photograph is an accurate representation of the model’s personality; weird and quirky. Breihz is a very active and enthusiastic person; always happy and outgoing. The googly glasses and the expression on her face are typical of her craziness.

Sarah MelvilleNorthern Beaches State High School

Country Beauty [detail] 2014 Digital image

Country style is more than just a fashion look; ‘country’ is a lifestyle. It reflects the rough, raw style of riding, the rodeos held in celebration and the music that tells stories of life, love and loss. ‘Country’ is a state of being and this photograph embodies all that I find beautiful in country life.

Billie Mullings Northern Beaches State High School

If Looks Could Kill [detail] 2014 Digital image

As Emily’s friend, my vision of her has been expressed in the gritty and raw manipulation of the photograph. It shows the person I have always known her to be; strong, determined and focused. The eyes are the door to the soul – her eyes are in a fixated stare; nothing is going to get in her way.

BillY phanNorthern Beaches State High School

Looking Back [detail] 2014 Digital image

Looking Back depicts the model’s life and shows that his past is full of regret. He is looking over his shoulder, back at his life, wishing his past would disappear but at the same time thanking it for making him the man he is today.

Krystal prasserNorthern Beaches State High School

Shadows [detail] 2014 Digital image

This image illustrates the shadows in a person’s life. It shows that while one side it may seem bright and happy, the other may be dark, with secrets, troubles and sadness. The girl in the picture has a thoughtful, contemplating expression on her face, which suggests that she is thinking and reflecting on her life.

Mitchell THOMASNorthern Beaches State High School

Rania [detail] 2014 Digital image

Rania is a photograph of my little sister. She is 12 years old and she loves her dinosaur ‘onesie’. This image captures her lovable nature, her innocence and her individuality.

Michael van akkeren Northern Beaches State High School

The Road to Heaven [detail] 2014 Digital image

The image depicts a solitary girl making her way along an empty, isolated path. She is unaware of her destination, but even so, she continues her journey. Before she knows it, the ‘girl in blue’ is on the road to heaven, and absolute tranquillity.

Tamara bobinPimlico State High School

Tangled Objects [detail] 2014 Acrylic and paper on canvas

Beyond my physical appearance, this self-portrait contains a variety of objects which are symbolic of my interests and hobbies; including my love of reading, the natural environment, travel, art, sewing and design. My sister, who is also an important aspect of my life, is included in the photo booth style picture.

Brooke HurditchPimlico State High School

The Greatest Commandment [detail] 2014 Acyrlic and graphite on canvas

My self-portrait utilises symbolism to convey various aspects of myself. Black and white reflects elegance and humility, both of which I strive to obtain. I have included the various Hebrew names of God to reflect my personal relationship with God. The red rose symbolises unconditional love, while the calm, neutral expression shows inner peace and growing self-awareness.

PYU SAN MINPimlico State High School

Past and Present [detail] 2014 Acrylic on canvas

This self-portrait painting makes use of symbolism to represent both my past and present. On the left hand side, the sun’s rays, mountains, bridge, traditional clothes and statue of Buddha, all represent my nationality and culture of the Karen state. The right hand side features iconic symbols of Australia, while the Pimlico SHS uniform depicts the present.

Claire-Marie Pepper Pimlico State High School

Australian Outback [detail] 2014 Tree bark and charcoal on board

This artwork explores the Australian outback using tree bark and charcoal to reflect the colours and textures of this unique landscape. The work communicates the beauty of the outback, while at the same time highlighting the negative impact of humans on this environment - in this case by cargo and petrol trains camouflaged beyond the trees.

Karina SEYNERPimlico State High School

Two Sides to Every Story [detail] 2014 Acrylic on canvas

Two Sides to Every Story represents individuality. The uncommon white tiger, my favourite animal, is fierce, strong and dominant. The ‘human side’ however, represents vulnerability. I was inspired to create this image from a digital artwork Half Human by Lucifers. This self-portrait gives insight into who I am, beyond my physical appearance.

Paris SUGDENPimlico State High School

Sugar Rush [detail] 2014 Gouache and artline pen

Sugar Rush is an extension of a year 11 Visual Art Studies unit. The focus of this unit was Illustration which I thoroughly enjoyed. Therefore I decided to create an artwork that was an extension of this. I found gouache very interesting as a medium and decided to experiment further with the bright and vibrant colours that gouache offers to achieve a bold pop-art style

Taylor collingsSaint Margaret Mary’s College

Fiery Spirit [detail] 2014 Oil pastel on cartridge

I was inspired to paint this portrait of my oldest sister, Samantha Collings, because of her ‘fiery spirit’ and passion for the world around her. I used colours such as red, orange and brown to express the warmth in Samantha’s personality. I also coloured a ring of orange around the pupil to capture a fiery effect.

Monica Donohue Saint Margaret Mary’s College

Watching [detail] 2014 Oil pastel on cartridge

Watching is a portrait of a young girl. I chose a blue, dark green and grey colour palate to convey her emotions. She appears anxious as she watches something outside of the picture frame. I have emphasised her eyes by limiting the use of light blue to that area and to the top right-hand corner of the portrait.

Jorja FELDTSaint Margaret Mary’s College

Blending In [detail] 2014 Photographic series

In our society we sometimes fear standing out from the crowd to avoid the risk of being noticed and judged. Instead, we choose to suppress our individuality and blend into our communities like a chameleon. This survival characteristic in humans is interpreted in this photographic subject-study of a girl blending into differing environments.

Lucy geyserSaint Margaret Mary’s College

Umbrellas [detail] 2014 Print and mixed media

I was inspired to explore umbrellas because I like the form, shape and function of umbrellas. I like the idea of how an umbrella can be a fashion statement, but have a practical function. I decided to explore umbrellas in a range of media including lino printing, collage, water colour and paper sculpting.

Geraldine hoffmannSaint Margaret Mary’s College

Le besoin d’appartenance (The need to belong) [detail] 2014 Lino print on paper

Inspired by the concept of ‘existence and a search for identity’, this series tells the story of a journey one person makes searching for a place they are connected to. The central subject represents a person who feels as though he does not exist as a member of society. In the second print, the man is sitting on his own, in isolation, whilst life exists around him.

Renee James Saint Margaret Mary’s College

A Fusion of Time [detail] 2014 Graphite and pencil on paper

A fusion of time represents the evolutionary transformation from atomic matter to reptile, chimpanzee, Homosapien and finally, android. The evolution of the human is a subject of great interest to me, as it explores the fluidity of existence and our capacity to change in order to survive; our extraordinary ability to adapt.

Emily liesegangSaint Margaret Mary’s College

Down the Rabbit Hole [detail] 2014 Print and mixed media artist’s book

My artwork provides a different view on the classic Lewis Carroll story, Alice in Wonderland, by depicting the characters that are loved by many all over the world. I have always adored these adventures and the strange and beautiful characters that Alice meets. I wanted to bring some of the characters to life the way I see them.

Ashlei MajorSaint Margaret Mary’s College

Strangely Hypnotising [detail] 2014 Oil pastel on cartridge

This portrait has been completed using oil pastels. The main focus that I wanted to highlight in the portrait is the mesmerising and piercing blue eyes, which were my inspiration. The young female subject has a strong and powerful gaze and I wanted to focus on the intensity of these eyes by using colour and contrast.

Courtney KELLYSaint Patrick’s College

Married to culture [detail] 2014 Lino print on paper

Married to culture explores cultural diversity, women and marriage. The images show three women from different cultures – Chinese, Australian and African - wearing traditional marital attire. They appear young and flawless, and represent how they are viewed by their own societies.

Jessica LAWSONSaint Patrick’s College

Liberate me, set me free [detail] 2014 Graphite and pencil on paper

Liberate me, set me free conveys a typical woman who feels she is confined, judged and imprisoned by society due to her gender. The ‘Superman’ symbol represents that a woman can be strong and capable, whether she is a mother, daughter, wife or young woman. Perhaps the symbol should reflect ‘Super people’, not just ‘Superman’.

Maddison SHEEHANSaint Patrick’s College

Untitled [detail] 2014 Digital print

Untitled explores the way in which adolescent girls are constantly exposed to sexist advertising. The famous ‘We Can Do It!’ poster has been manipulated using a graffiti style juxtaposed against coloured images of sexist advertising. The image represents out-dated attitudes, values and beliefs driven upon young girls which severely decrease self-confidence.

Ebony WILSONSaint Patrick’s College

Perceive [detail] 2014 Digital images series

Perceive explores gender roles found in society and the difference between biological sex and gender. It explores the expectations and perceptions of women and investigates the reality behind the roles that women play. The images explore issues relating to gender identity: body image, sexual freedom, cross dressing, femininity and stereotypes.

Madeline PENDERGASTTownsville Grammar School

Water [detail] 2014 Mixed Media

Water is one of our planets most valuable resources. Water is life. As a society, due to its perceived abundance, we take water for granted. Shortages in drinkable water are having a devastating impact on developing societies and droughts are becoming increasingly common events. To ensure sustainability we need to respect water and value its contribution to our lives.

Bronte SHEPHERDTownsville Grammar School

Cinema [detail] 2014 Mixed media

For me there is nothing better than going to the cinema: purchasing your ticket, grabbing some popcorn, choosing a seat, the lights go down and the magic begins! Each letter of my architectural word illustrates a selection of my favourite movies including: Up, The Lion King, Frozen, Mickey Mouse and Tangled.

Alicia THYGESENTownsville Grammar School

Live on the Bright Side of Life [detail] 2014 Mixed media

My architectural word illustrates my perception of light. When darkness unravels we find comfort in flicking on a switch to look on the bright side of life; a lightning bolt out of the blue can be very harmful; light can warn us of danger and sunlight warms up our days.

Natasha CHAFFEY William Ross State High School

Just Passing Through [detail] 2014 Fabric, photographs

This artwork represents my own physical journey. When people travel to places they create memories through photographs. These are my memories presented by wearable art. I love to travel and have been to many places. While the underskirt itself is plain, the layered photographs travel over the surface in a circular motion.

Rebecca CLUNWilliam Ross State High School

Micro World [detail] 2014 Acrylic, watercolour, graphite, collage on paper

I have focused on the little things in life as I feel they make up the big things. The journey that I chose to explore in my artwork was that of the Rhinoceros beetle. Normally the beetle is seen as big and bulky, but I have tried to illustrate how small and delicate it actually is.

Mikayla INGHAMWilliam Ross State High School

Desert Rose [detail] 2014 Wearable, mixed media

This artwork describes the journey of a seed; more specifically the feather-light seed of a Desert Rose. Although they originated in the desert, they can be found in many environments around the world. Everything down to the shape of the skirt, which resembles the trunk of a wild desert rose tree, is influenced by this beautiful plant.

Timothy JAUNDRELL William Ross State High School

Modern Australia [detail] 2014 Acrylic and impasto on canvas

The journey represented in my work is a cultural journey, the journey of the future of Australia’s identity. I decided to identify one particular culture that has obvious symbols of their identity, the Arabic culture. I chose the phenotype of the Taliban soldier because people of society identify these traits as their stereotypes.

TYLER HILDER Pimlico State High School

Mayday Holiday [detail] 2014 Digital prints on paper

With all the recent human-made complications threatening Earth, everyone seems curiously calm. People have become ignorant of the weight of their responsibilities, opting to ignore and adapt to problems instead of rectifying them. Recent catastrophes, such as the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, have gone nearly unnoticed. This work questions how far society will go to experience leisure and remain blissfully oblivious, even in the face of peril.

EMILY ASCOUGHBowen State High School Falling - Flying [detail] 2014 Acrylic on reclaimed window

Often we view ourselves with disapproval. One side of my artwork reflects how some people believe they are “falling”, never being able to achieve success and goals in life. Dreams, shown on the other side of the window, are the only places where they can see themselves in disbelieving situations, accomplishing amazing things.

ONI FOSTER Bowen State High School Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover [detail] 2014 Reclaimed books, photographs, found objects

The meaning of the artworks is to show my identity and the way I hide it by putting up masks or a fake smile and pretending to be somebody that I’m not. The photos on the covers represent the fake me which is my mask and the photos on the inside is who I really am and the places that I can be myself in. The main message is to show that there is another side of me so don’t judge a book by its cover.

LOC TRANBowen State High School Wo’Man [detail] 2014 Mannequin bust, newspaper, gesso, rubbing gold, copper sheet, feathers, cotton, silk

This artwork explores the differences genders exhibit, but also the similarities they have and that they can also be combined. A man and woman’s body may have many similarities that can be linked together to make one androgynous form that is both male and female. What is masculinity; what is femininity?

NATHAN MAHERBowen State High School You are a thousand things [detail] 2014 Mixed media

Many people, particularly young females, share wants, hopes and loves, and thus the person I created represents the identity of teenage society. The person we are today is controlled by those around us, so I created this artwork to express concern and true self.

SANITA PATTERSONKirwan State High School <3500 [detail] 2014 Acrylic paint, professional airbrush medium, perspex

<3500, crystallises the idea that sharks are not the issue in relation to shark attacks on beaches all over the world. The behaviour of humans towards their habitat is problematic as humans are rapidly destroying the species by enforcing such policies like the Western Australian shark cull. There are less than 3500 Great White Sharks left.

JESSICA NOLANKirwan State High School Left or Right? [detail] 2014 Watercolour and mixed media

Left or Right?, aims to provide insight into my journey from the start of year twelve, with a broken right arm. This artwork is intended to portray the thoughts, emotions and the internal struggle of self-doubt of ‘left and right brain’ applications. The end result is the juxtaposition of learning to be left-handed and delightfully, discovering a new personal aesthetic.

ALICIA KIRKBurdekin Catholic High School Ex Nihilo Nihil Fit [detail] 2014 Acrylic on canvas

I produced this piece by exploring ideas of time, place and space. The central idea is the conservation of energy: reflecting the scientific influence of my understanding of the world. The work represents the cycle of life, the balanced movement of energy and the desire to find the truth about energy, power and control.

NHUT CAOKirwan State High School Self [detail] 2014 Ink, ballpoint pen and mixed media

Self is about me. Being in a conservative Asian family has prevented me in expressing who I am in fear of bringing a bad reputation to my family. I often have to repress and suppress anything that is not considered ‘normal’. This artwork is significant as it crystallizes my journey to discover a way to express who I am through art.

ADELLE KENNETTPimlico State High School Self-portrait [detail] 2014 Mixed media on canvas

This mixed media self-portrait painting aims to communicate who I am beyond my physical appearance. The wolf represents my love for and protection of family and friends, while the swan indicates my gentle and passionate nature. Placed central in the artwork is a paintbrush in my mouth, which symbolises my passion for art.

JOSH EVANSPimlico State High School Sonder [detail] 2014 Electronic imaging

This digital artwork that I have simply called Sonder, focusses on the socio-cultural context of people. It explores our inability as humans to grasp the idea that each random passer-by is an individual leading a full life; important and influential as each other. Within this realisation is the idea of humans blurring the line between individuals and growing and evolving as one.

RHIANNA POWELLKirwan State High School Hidden Memories [detail] 2014 Acrylic gouache and mixed media

Hidden Memories is about reflection and remembrance. It represents a period in my life where I was lost and hurt, but was able to find clarity, crystalize my thoughts and discover my own strength. The painting is similar to a photograph I had taken around the time of my grandfather’s death and holds an insight into a personal experience.

EDWARD HOOPERPimlico State High School Nature’s War [detail] 2014 Acrylic on canvas

Nature’s War, visually represents observations I have made from personal travel experiences throughout Australia, Holland and Italy. My paintings communicate a message that nature is reclaiming different sites of World War II; with a tree overgrowing a bunker in Charters Towers, the ocean enveloping part of the Atlantic Wall, and snow concealing a fortification in Cortina D’Ampezzo.

COURTNEY THOMPSONRyan Catholic College Which skin are you wearing? [detail] 2014 Digital photography

My latest body of work consists of a series of photographs exploring consumerism - the thought that material items and concepts shape our values and attitudes. The colour image displayed in this work is the focal point of a series of five photographs encouraging us to reflect on who we really are.

EMILY FISHERRyan Catholic College What a Strange Frame of Mind [detail] 2014 Drawing and paint media

Through exploring the concept of metamorphosis, my artwork shows the different aspects of a person’s mental and physical layering, and the changes people experience as they grow. The physical inner and outer layers are represented in my three drawings with the brain, the skeleton and then the flesh and body of a person.

TRACEY KEWEPimlico State High School Without help, there is no hope [detail] 2014 Mixed media on canvas with fluorescent lights

This mixed media artwork explores the worsening issue of homelessness within city environments. The northern region of Queensland in particular, has a higher proportion of homeless people than the state as a whole. My message is that these people, many of whom are women and children, need our help to find change in their circumstances.

EMMA BOURKERyan Catholic College Ebola Coffin [detail] 2014 Wood and clay

My artwork aims at investigating the dreadful effects upon the human body of the Ebola virus. The virus attacks the body tissues and every organ. The virus is represented with one hundred coiled clay pieces. The body is suspended in a wooden frame to represent a traditional South African wooden coffin.

TANEILLE WILSHIREThe Cathedral School of St Anne and St James Thriamvo [detail] 2014 Acrylic on canvas

This painting represents the cultural push to be the best, the most powerful. I have chosen to show this allegorically using the simple childhood game of dress up. This shows that competitiveness is indeed evident from an early age. The emphasis is on being better and stronger which is ever present in today’s society.

CLARE SIMPSONThe Cathedral School of St Anne and St James Young Liberty [detail] 2014 Acrylic on paper

The focal point of this work is The Statue of Liberty - an internationally renowned symbol of freedom. In the modern world, youth are seen as filled with opportunity, potential and freedom. However, as this work depicts, young women in particular are faced with far more challenges than society reveals.

BRITTNEY BOGOTTOThe Cathedral School of St Anne and St James Game of Life [detail] 2014 Digital print on canvas

The human figure, regardless of size, acts as a powerful tool, dominating over the planet for its resources. However, nature, in all its power, is fighting back and forcing a battle for territory.

GRACE KAMMHOLZThe Cathedral School of St Anne and St James Man’s inhumanity to man [detail] 2014Oil on canvas

This painting was originally designed to represent the brutality of man. However, I chose to take an abstract approach to allow for one’s own interpretation; perhaps the fight for survival or the desperate struggle for success.

MADELINE MCDONELLWilliam Ross State High School Cycle [detail] 2014 Acetate, acrylic and photographs

The focus of this body of work was to portray a journey. The journey my artwork follows is through the decline of nature because of human interference and destruction. This piece was inspired by Janet Laurence, adapting her use of printing images onto clear sheets of glass.

JENNIFER MARODI William Ross State High School Extinction [detail] 2014 Mixed media

Extinction is a journey through the decline of our natural environment. Mankind is slowly destroying our environment, with many species no longer existing. Future generations will only be able to view nature through the glass of a museum display. This is reflected in my use of materials in this sculpture.

SHONA HEYTMANTownsville Grammar School id. 2014 Photopolymer, etching, collagraph, paper, thread, found objects, wax

id. is a set of uncoordinated instinctual trends. My work reflects this part of my persona, past, present and future. My growth is represented through elements in nature, my locations are represented through prints and the stages of my life are represented through books.

MADELINE PENDERGASTTownsville Grammar School Multi-faceted [detail] 2014Acrylic on canvas

This self-portrait depicts a disjointed but structured figure. Painted in natural true colours and tones it highlights that there are many facets to a person. Humans are disjointed in many ways as we have many sides to our physical, emotional and spiritual presence. From the outside our individual attributes can be viewed as seemingly unrelated, however when all brought together they form one person.

PUBLISHERGallery Services, Townsville City CouncilPO Box 1268Townsville, Queensland 4810 Australiapinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au+61 7 4773 8871

© Gallery Services, Townsville City Council and the authors 2014

Exhibition organised byGALLERY SERVICES

Shane Fitzgerald Manager Gallery ServicesEric Nash Curator Gallery ServicesJo Stacey Team Leader Administration Gallery ServicesMichael Pope Exhibitions and Collections CoordinatorAmber Church Education and Programs CoordinatorRob Donaldson Digital Media and Design CoordinatorSarah Welch Public Art OfficerAlex Shapley Exhibitions OfficerHolly Grech-Fitzgerald Collections Management OfficerTegan Ollett Education and Programs OfficerCarly Sheil Digital Media and Exhibition Design OfficerGillian Ribbins Administration OfficerWendy Bainbridge Administration OfficerDanielle Berry Arts OfficerMichelle Littman Gallery AssistantPatricia Dunn Gallery AssistantDamian Cumner Gallery AssistantRurik Henry Gallery Assistant

Pinnacles Gallery20 Village Blvd, Townsville QLD 4817 (07) 4773 8871 pinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au www.bit.ly/pinntcc @TCC_Pinnacles /PinnaclesTCC

Opening Hours:Tuesday - Sunday: 10am - 5pmClosed Mondays

Published on the occasion of the exhibition

Pinnacles Gallery23 August - 14 September 2014

Registration TeamMichael Pope / Amber Church / Tegan Ollett

Publication Design and DevelopmentCarly Sheil / Amber Church / Tegan Olett Typeset in 9 - 12pt Helvetica LT (text)HelveticaInserat LT 15pt (theadings)Meta (cover)Photography: All photography by school staff and students

Gallery AcknowledgementsGallery Services would like to acknowledge the generous support and assistance of the Department of Education, Training and Employment, Art Shed Brisbane, School Art Supplies and Townsville City Council in realising this exhibition.

A special thankyou to Melinda Gould, Regional Coordinator for Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art. Thanks also to all participating schools, teachers and students:

• Bowen State High School (Bowen)• Burdekin Catholic High School (Burdekin)• Kirwan State High School (Townsville)• Pimlico State High School (Townsville)• Ryan Catholic College (Townsville)• The Cathedral School of St Anne and St James (Townsville)• Townsville Grammar School (Townsville)• William Ross State High School (Townsville)

North Queensland regional exhibition 2014

Department of Education, Training and Employment

Great state. Great opportunity.

Introduction

The Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art recognises and promotes excellence in senior visual art education throughout state and non-state schools in Queensland.

Since 1990, the program has helped raise community awareness of the degree of sophistication in concepts, diversity of technical competence, and the high standard of visual art education in Queensland secondary schools. The artworks of 24 talented young artists in the following pages comprise the 2014 Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art North Queensland regional exhibition.

Pinnacles Gallery23 August - 14 September 2014

North Queensland regional exhibition 2014

CatalogueNorth Queensland regional exhibition 2014