On 22 March the National Gallery of Victoria will open Top Arts 2012, an exhibition highlighting the thoughts and talents of young Victorians.
Now in its eighteenth year, Top Arts 2012 will display over 60 works by 54 students from government, Catholic and independent schools from across Victoria.
This year, works range from traditional printmaking, to a number of drawings, paintings, photographs and three dimensional works including disused television screens and an architectural dress which folds into a backpack.
Students have been inspired by a wide range of themes including responses to popular culture, the internet, music, family and nature. Many exhibitors have also cited the work of other artists and increasingly those working with non-traditional media as inspiration for their own creations.
Merren Ricketson, Top Arts Coordinating Curator said: “Top Arts is an exhibition of ideas. This year’s works show an extremely high level of experimentation, imagination and conceptual development.
“Many of the works on display also show the concerns students have about facing life in the 21st century, highlighting both their thoughtfulness and self-confidence as artists,” said Ms Ricketson.
Visitors to the exhibition are also encouraged to vote for their favourite work as part of the Goldman Sachs People’s Choice Award. Last year more than 13,000 people voted in the award.
The art department of the top three schools whose exhibitors gain the most votes will receive a cash award.
Frances Lindsay, Deputy Director, NGV said: “Top Arts is incredibly popular with students, schools and the general public alike. Last year, more than 100,000 people enjoyed the exhibition and I encourage all Victorians to attend this year’s show.”
Students selected for Top Arts 2012 completed Art or Studio Arts last year as part of their Victorian Certificate of Education. 148 artists were shortlisted from more than 1800 applicants.
A diverse range of education and public programs, including opportunities to meet the exhibitors and view their developmental work will accompany the exhibition. Please visit ngv.vic.gov.au for up to date information and ngv.vic.gov.au/learn for details on the schools program.
Top Arts 2012 will be on display at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Federation Square from 22 March – 15 July 2012, open Tues-Sun, 10am–5pm. Entry is free.
Top Arts 2012 is a VCE Season of Excellence event.
-ends-
Principal Sponsor
Goldman Sachs
Support Sponsor
Avant Card
Education Supporters
Department Education and Early Childhood Development
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority
Catholic Education Office
Independent Schools Victoria