Mackay student artists awarded for excellence

Two of Mackay’s most promising student artists have been honoured with 2008 Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art and Design.

Mackay North State High School student Khara Deurhof and Whitsunday Anglican School student Madison Strutynski had their artworks selected from nearly 550 entries.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the students’ work would feature in a student exhibition opening at the Mackay Old Town Hall tonight (Tuesday 2 September).

“The Mackay Whitsunday regional exhibition is one of 10 being held across the state this month to showcase the high standard of artwork in Queensland schools,” Mr Welford said.

“I encourage community members to visit their local exhibition and experience the breadth of artistic talent demonstrated by the state’s future artists.

“The talent out there among our senior students is truly amazing.

“The high standard of works entered in the awards program every year is testament to the talented students, their committed teachers and the outstanding arts programs in our schools.”

Member for Mackay, Tim Mulherin, congratulated the local student artists who are two of some 40 award recipients from around the state who will have their artwork exhibited at the Queensland Art Gallery before the exhibition tours regional galleries across the state.

“Khara’s photographs of a wearable art piece and Madison’s painted record covers are a reflection of the high standard of our young artists,” Mr Mulherin said.

“It is a great honour for them to have their art works featured in the same gallery that has recently hosted exhibitions from such masters as Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol.

“Khara and Madison will also join the other award recipients for a five-day residential workshop with professional artists in Brisbane during the September school holidays.”

Suzanne Webb from Bowen State High School was one of six students awarded a S&S Creativity unlimited Regional Encouragement Award for her ink sketch, Breaking Free.

For more information visit www.education.qld.gov.au/community/events/creativegeneration/artawards/visualart

Media Contact: Marnie Stitz on 0419 734 985