Young artists impress judges

More than 70 entries have been received for USQ's annual Escape from the Zoo exhibition and art award.

The award and subsequent exhibition showcase emerging artists from regional high schools.
Co-ordinator of the USQ Visual Arts program, Dr Kyle Jenkins said he and fellow USQ Visual Arts staff have been impressed by the entries.

'We have been overwhelmed by the high artistic and professional quality of the entries,' Dr Jenkins said.

'It is a reflection of the diverse and quality approaches to art-making being taught in local schools. I also think young people are taking their art much more seriously in general these days.

'Perhaps this is a reflection on the impact modern technologies have had on art – especially the internet which offers artists immediate promotion of, and response to, what they are doing.'

From the initial pool of entries, forty works have been shortlisted to appear in the exhibition which will range from painting, print making and sculpture to mixed media and photography.

'Last year, we shortlisted less than half this number which in itself reflects the amazing quality of the entries we have received. We are extremely appreciative of the support this project has received from local art teachers and pleased to have contributions from secondary schools across the region including Fairholme College, Toowoomba State High School, Downlands College, Clifton State High School, St Joseph’s College, Lockyer District High School and Harristown State High School.'

A total of four awards are up for grabs, with prizes ranging from cash for the winner of the 2D and 3D categories, to a Murray’s Art & Framing material voucher for the runner-up; and a 2012 McGregor Summer School bursary for the overall winner.

Winners were announced at the Official Opening of the exhibition on Wednesday 25 May at 5pm in the USQ Arts Gallery, Toowoomba.

The exhibition continued until 9 June.