First Class 22

Since 2009 First Class has celebrated and showcased the exceptional standard of work produced by HSC Visual Arts Students from the Hunter and Central Coast regions. A Museum of Art and Culture, yapang initiated project, this unique exhibition continues to be a highlight of the yearly calendar. Selected from submissions produced in the previous year, the exhibition continues to embrace the diversity of media and techniques that represent the wide scope of the NSW HSC Visual Arts syllabus.­

Presenting the work of skillful young artists in a professionally curated gallery setting, audiences are able to experience the richness of local talent and the voice of youth. Employing a variety of visual imagery and techniques, many of these artists have turned inward to explore the impact of their world and their response to it. Themes of family, memories and the importance of home are distinctive concepts that connect us all. Intimate works explore complex connections to place and identity, youth, personal relationships and culture. A deep connection to nature is also explored with symbolic interpretations commenting on environmental impacts and ecological responsibilities.

Visual Arts places a high regard on how students develop an informed point of view, encouraging diversity, empathy and inclusion. Those selected for First Class 22 have excelled in these areas and their voices are heard throughout the exhibition. Whilst many works explore serious concepts and weighty issues, many have celebrated the fun, quirky and whimsical. This exhibition honours the wonderful talents of our local HSC students of 2022 and we commend their work and vision.

Curated by Cormac O'Riordan, Karen Gilbertson and Kate Endacott

Image: Kyah Stewart, Warners Bay High School Petrified Sisters 2022. raffia, paper raffia, metal, Sheoak nuts, gumnuts, cowrie shells, emu feathers, fishing line.

First Class 22 Finalists:

• Alexandra Addis
• Amelia Fisher
• Anna Leman
• Ashlee Marsden
• Beth Stewart
• Bianca Recchia
• Caitlin Rowling
• Catrin Farrell
• Charlotte Rowland
• Cooper Miles
• Courtney Gatt
• Diaz Croak
• Elizabeth Thomson
• Ella Murray
• Ella Johnston
• Ellecia Marriott
• Emma Foley
• Erin Marini        
• Gabrielle Martin
• Gemma Lloyd
• Georgia Simons
• Grace Hewitt
• Isabelle Stanton
• Jade Duong
• James Bowen
• Jamie-lee Winch
• Jaz Lawes
• Jhon Houghton
• Kirralee Pearce
• Kyah Stewart
• Lilly Nicholas
• Lucy Boyce
• Mackenzie Joyner
• Madeline Clifton
• Matisse Howden
• Miranda Chrismas
• Molly Lochrin
• Oliver Rollings
• Oliver Hatch
• Phoebe Croker
• Rachael Jones
• Reese Hagan
• Ruby Buckeridge
• Sophie Warman Nettleton
• Sylvie Lubinski
• Teah Webb
• Zac Wong

When

Location

Museum of Art and Culture (MAC), 1A First Street, Booragul 2284, Booragul 2284  View in Google Maps