College creatives to exhibit art

THE work of students from Oxygen College’s local professional artist program will be presented to the public from next week.

Eight creatives have contributed to the graduation exhibition, which will include at pieces and ideas developed throughout the year.

With work in the show, Selina Morgan said she’s always loved drawing but returned to study to broaden her skills.

“I wanted to push myself that step further. I started the course not knowing how to paint, and throughout, I’ve learnt so much, it’s mindboggling,” she said.

“For the exhibition, I’ve focused on animals, which I love, and landscaping towards the end. I am thinking about maybe creating a business out of my art now.”

Fellow classmate Teresa Foster said she’s enjoyed experimenting with painting and drawing, lino printing, collage-making, and mixed media within the course, although her body of work on display will be gouache-based.

“We’ve been encouraged to use different mediums, and as someone at the top end of the age bracket, it’s just been a great journey,” she said.

“This diploma is my third course with Oxygen College. It is a full-on course, producing high-quality art, and the culmination is this exhibition we’re having.”

The course has given Christine Stevens, who has an aim to exhibit professionally, the opportunity to explore new creative avenues.

“I did certificate three last year, and had never drawn or painted, and didn’t really know what I wanted to get out of it, except to learn how to do that,” she said.

“I discovered I really liked abstract art. I’ve always worked with textiles, so now I’m introducing used textiles and old clothing into my artwork, doing more collage and assemblage with stitching, and incorporating photography.

“I’ve been developing and exploring all different mediums and methods of making art, and for me, it’s a joy to do it, produce it, and have it as a pure pleasure.”

The graduation exhibition will be open from Tuesday, 29 November until Friday, 2 December, 10am to 3pm at Oxygen College, 63 Scott Parade, Ballarat East. Original works and prints will be for sale.

Community members are also welcome at the cohort’s closing celebration from 6pm to 8pm on the final evening, and will receive a complimentary drink on arrival.