Year 11 Collection of Works 

Year 11 Visual Arts students have been working closely with their teachers to develop a personal Collection of Work (COW) based on a chosen object. Students have explored a range of expressive forms, producing an abstract cardboard sculpture, A4 still life drawing, A3 abstract charcoal work, two A5 mixed media pieces (using watercolour, ink or acrylic), and two photographic or digital manipulations of their sculpture. Alongside these practical tasks, students have maintained a Visual Arts Process Diary (VAPD) to document the evolution of their ideas, experimentation with media, and critical analysis of influential artworks. Students also completed an in-class essay exploring how artists represent their world, drawing on artists and artworks studied in Unit 1 – Artists and the World. This holistic approach has encouraged deep engagement with materials, techniques, and conceptual thinking.

Year 9 Archibald Paintings in Progress

Year 9 Visual Arts students have been immersed in Unit 1: The Archibald Prize, where they explored the art of portraiture by creating a painting of a significant person in their lives. Using acrylic paint on canvas, students applied a range of painting techniques while thoughtfully considering how to represent the identity, personality, and story of their sitter. Through interviews, photographs, and research, students developed a deep understanding of their sitter, which was documented in their Visual Arts Process Diary (VAPD). Their VAPDs showcase experimentation with media, research into artistic styles, use of the Frames, and critical reflection on their artistic decisions. This project encouraged students to make meaningful connections between sitter’s identity and meaningful expression, while refining their technical and conceptual skills.

Year 8 Shock of the NEW

Year 8 students have launched into their new unit, Shock of the NEW, exploring how art has evolved over time - from traditional styles to contemporary works that challenged audiences. Over the next 10 weeks, students will investigate how world events, inventions, and diverse beliefs have influenced artists and their creations. To kick off the unit, students are currently in the process of creating visually dynamic title pages inspired by contemporary artist Nancy Standlee, known for her vibrant paper collages that use bold colour and layered compositions to explore personal memories. Through this activity, students are already applying key visual elements such as colour, line, shape, and composition. 

Year 7 Where the Land meets the Sea

This term in Visual Arts, Year 7 students have been exploring the unit Where the Land Meets the Sea, focusing on the significance of iconic Australian natural landmarks such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Students learned about the meaning of ‘World Heritage Site’ and why these locations are important to us all. They also explored how artists use their work to raise awareness about conservation. Inspired by the vibrant colours and beauty of these landscapes, students are currently in the process of creating title pages to reflect their understanding and appreciation of these unique environments.

Mrs Shandel Kemal 

Visual Arts Teacher