Young artists Step into the Limelight

The main gallery at the ANU School of Art has been inundated with work from the ACT’s up-and-coming young artists. Step into the Limelight, which starts on 15 July, features artwork from over 150 students from 35 ACT public schools.

Now in its fifth year, this is the first time the show has moved to the School of Art’s Main Gallery to accommodate the 300 pieces made by students from preschool through to year 12. It incorporates a range of media including photography, sculpture, collage, painting, lino print and mixed media.

Head of the School of Art Denise Ferris is delighted to give these young artists the opportunity to show their work in a professional gallery space.

“Most exhibiting artists can still recall their first exhibition opening, when their work was finally installed and the show opened to an audience – it’s terrifying and thrilling,” she says.

“These students will now experience that wonderful feeling of accomplishment as their diverse artworks are shown in this exhibition.”

The art exhibition is a joint initiative between the ACT Department of Education and Training Directorate and the ANU School of Art and aims to show the diversity of talent across all ages in the region’s public schools. In addition to the art exhibition, the Step into the Limelight program includes a gala performance and film festival.

Alison Moulang, who teaches art at Dickson College, has worked on the show since it started in 2007 and has taken on the role of curator this year.

While it’s been challenging arranging the vast amount of work in the new space, Alison says so far it’s been a great experience and she’s enjoyed seeing the work of talented students across the ACT.

“It really showcases the local talent and highlights the quality of art programs in ACT public schools,” she says.

“It’s fabulous to see the range of work from preschool to year 12 students and special schools.”

She adds that many of Dickson College’s previous participants in Limelight have gone on to study at the ANU School of Art.

Event details

Exhibition dates: Monday 15 July – Saturday 27 July

Opening reception: 6:00pm 23 July

Location:School of Art Main Gallery, Building 105B,
ANU School of Art, Ellery Crescent Acton 0200

Image 1: students' work being installed ahead of the opening day.
Image 2: digital photograph by Dickson College student Honor Luckhurst.