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Exhibitions shine spotlight on young artists

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For the past year a group of Year 11 and 12 students across the state have immersed themselves in a creative arts program with the University of Tasmania.

Now their artistic endeavours will be on display for all to see at one of three Object Design Exhibitions running from September 27 to October 14 for the University Connections Program (UCP).

There will be exhibitions in Hobart, Launceston and Devonport, with each one featuring the work of secondary students who have completed an artwork with the design theme CARE in mind.

UCP Unit Coordinator Object Design Sonja Hindrum said it was encouraging to see the development of works created by Year 11 and 12 students across the state.

“This year’s theme has been CARE, and we are delighted to see the design thinking, craftsmanship and skill that these young designers and makers have developed during this unit,” Sonja said.

“While I have had a sneak peek at the works being developed, there is nothing like seeing all the works come together for the exhibition. Every year I am truly blown away by the design thinking and making that is generated in this unit.”

The UCP provides a unique opportunity for Year 11 and 12 students to undertake introductory university units specifically designed for senior secondary students. The Program is offered in partnership between the University of Tasmania, Tasmanian Schools and the Office of Tasmanian Assessment Standards and Certification (TASC).

Object Design is taught within secondary colleges across the state. Enrolled students receive one on one support and guidance from UTAS Mentors to develop their design concepts whilst they work in their college studios with their teachers.

UCP Quinn Hardy
Hand tufted rug, “Walk all over me” by Quinn Hardy from Launceston College.

Launceston College student Quinn Hardy said the course has meant exploring a medium that they otherwise would not have had access to.

“My work, “Walk all over me”, examines a visual representation of having one’s emotions overlooked or discounted,” Quinn said.

“Rugs add warmth and comfort to any room, they bring fun, colour, shape and texture to a space without taking up any space at all. We literally walk all over them every day!

“I find rugs are comparable to human hearts in that way. What better way to visually express a trampled heart than in rug form?”

To find out more about the three exhibitions go to bit.ly/ucpdesign

DEVONPORT

Where: Devonport Regional Gallery, paranaple arts centre, 145 Rooke St, Devonport

When: Open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm; Saturdays 9am-2pm.

LAUNCESTON

Where:  University of Tasmania Inveresk Library, Inveresk Campus,  2 Invermay Road, Launceston

When: Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 8am-5pm; Thursday 8am-6pm

HOBART

Where: University of Tasmania Centre for the Arts, Hunter Street, Hobart

When: Open  Monday to Friday 11am-4pm

Oliver Wood Friends
Electric skateboard "E-Xplore" by Oliver Wood. The vehicle uses batteries recycled from laptop computers which otherwise would have contributed to landfill, while the deck is laminated using sustainably grown bamboo.