By BRIDGET COOK
TWO Casey students have been given a kick-start in the art industry, by having their works selected for a prestigious exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV).
Former Cranbourne Secondary College student Danielle Schmidt and Hampton Park Secondary College student Tia Clothier had their artworks selected for NGV’s annual exhibition – StArt Up: Top Arts 2014.
Now in its 20th year and one of the most popular and diverse exhibitions on the NGV calendar, the exhibition features the best artworks from the VCE class of the previous year.
Students from across the state who received an A grade or higher for their art folio could apply for the exhibition.
More than 3000 submissions were received, with just 49 artists chosen to exhibit.
Danielle said she was thrilled to be chosen and she even shed some tears of joy when she heard the news.
“I had been to Top Arts every year when I started to fall in love with art and it was only a dream of mine to get this opportunity,” she said.
“It means the world to me having been accepted and it’s such an excellent opportunity to have my artworks on display at the NGV for so many people to see and enjoy as well.”
Danielle said her artworks were inspired by circuses, but more what goes on behind the scenes.
“Initially, I was drawn to the excitement and energy of circus performers and the bright bold colours of circus costumes,” she said.
“As I explored this subject further, I discovered a sombre truth behind the elaborate masks.
“My work aims to expose the harshness and real impact of spending a lifetime in the circus.
“I am mostly inspired by portrait artists, particularly painters John Brack and Bernard Buffet and photographer Christina Otera.
“I am constantly being inspired by new surroundings and I enjoy exploring a wide range of art mediums.”
Tia has a particular interest in gender and sexuality and that became the subject of her artwork for the exhibition.
She created three pen and watercolour works that explored newly-discovered gender identities.
The StArt Up: Top Arts exhibition will be on display at the NGV Studio, Flinders Street, Federation Square until 20 July.
It is open daily from 10am to 5pm, and admission is free.
