Emerging artists’ works go on show

YOUNG artists are showing off their hard work as part of the Next Gen exhibition at the Ballarat Art Gallery.

The exhibit opened with an awards night on Friday, 17 February and for 20 years it’s been showcasing the works of high school students from Ballarat and the surrounding areas.

Angel Harris’ work entitled Agoraphobia – or the fear of being trapped – is one of many on display.

“My artwork derives from my everyday fears, but I liked to base this one more around the fear of expected gender norms,” Harris said.

“Especially as a non-binary person coming to terms with my own identity, it’s really easy to get sucked down, quite literally, into being a woman.

“I hope I can find some friends who can connect to what I’m feeling.”

The awards were judged by artists Marce King and Ebony Gulliver.

Annie Sullivan was won the award for innovation with her work Ontogensis, while Alice Barry was the winner in the excellence category with her piece Woodsy and Wilma.

The award of creativity title went to Michelle Hayashi for artwork The Day at the Fishing Pond in Hakone.

As part of the event 2017 Next Gen finalist and Ballarat artist Vienna Bischard spoke about her experience and said she was thrilled to be involved in this year’s exhibition.

“It’s very helpful to have an exhibition under your belt, especially as a young artist,” she said.

“I think it’s incredibly supportive for young local artists and it does build a sense of community around them.”

Next Gen will be showing until Sunday, 16 April and visitors can vote for the people’s choice category.