Crossing paths and creating art

A NEW exhibition has opened in Art Space Ballarat by artists who became connected by completing a Diploma of Visual Arts in the city.

The collection of works entitled Juxtaposition highlights the different styles and mediums used by local artists Aubree Taffinder, Mariah McDonald, Selina Morgan, Taylah Richards, Teresa Foster and Vincent McK throughout their studies.

Taffinder said the exhibition celebrates the idea that despite differences styles, the group share connections.

“The best way to put it is we’re all kind of starting up in our practices and we’ve learnt a lot about each other and really just want our art to stand up next to each to show we’re all very different,” she said.

“We express ourselves differently, but we’re all artists.”

During the exhibition opening hours, there will be occasions where members of the group will work on their craft for visitors to see.

One of Taffinder works, which is a self-portrait, focuses on the experience studying for her science degree.

“It kind of captures where I was at that moment, I was studying at the time and I was hyper focused on my work on the computer,”’ she said.

“It’s white and black because it kind of feels like the world disappears when you’re that focused on something.”

Taffinder said having a group of likeminded people to share the experience with made it less daunting.

“It’s somewhat less scary that we’re all together and it’s really supportive,” she said. “We go through the process together, support each other and then stand up next to each other.”

She is also eager to see the different perspectives visitors may have on the works.

“Having people come in and talk about all the different art is exciting because people relate differently to art,” she said.

“There’s different perspectives then if you were just to speak to an artist about their work because you’re getting interpretations.”

The exhibition is open at Art Space Ballarat from Wednesday to Sunday, 10am until 2pm.