Youth Art Exhibition celebrates local talent

The 2025 Mansfield Youth Art Exhibition has concluded its month long run, with seven young local artists, aged 14 to 20, displaying a range of art mediums. Held at the Mansfield Information Centre Gallery, the exhibition launched on Friday 5 September, with an opening event attended by around 40 guests. Attendees enjoyed a relaxed afternoon tea, great art and live acoustic music by local performer Alana Beattie, setting the tone for a month-long celebration of youth creativity. Two standout awards were presented during the exhibition. The Amplify Artist Award was awarded to Abigail Wettenhall for her impressive multi-medium display featuring pencil work, pyrography, charcoal drawings and sculpture. Abigail received a Made in Mansfield gift voucher for her achievement. The ‘Framing the Future’ People’s Choice Award went to Molly Purcell for her piece titled Obsidian. With over 200 votes cast by the public throughout the exhibition, the oil and acrylic artwork of a horse was the winner and Molly will receive a voucher to attend an Arts Mansfield workshop of her choice. Mayor Cr Steve Rabie praised the initiative and the impressive of work on display. “It has been fantastic to see the incredible talent of our young local artists celebrated this past month. "This exhibition is a wonderful initiative by the Amplify Committee, and it shows the depth of creativity we have right here in our shire,” said Cr Rabie. “To see over 200 votes cast for the People’s Choice award is just fantastic. "It shows how much our community values and supports the creativity of our young people.” Councillor Bonnie Clark attended the launch event on behalf of council and emphasised the important role of the arts in youth development. “We often talk a lot about the importance of academics, sports and technology in the development of young people, but we mustn’t overlook creativity,” said Cr Clark. “It teaches us how to think differently, use our imagination, express emotions, and gain confidence in ourselves.” The Amplify Committee and Mansfield Shire Youth would like to thank all the young artists who contributed their work, stating their intention to make the exhibition an annual event. “We’re committed to supporting and celebrating the creativity of our local youth. "This exhibition is just the beginning,” said a spokesperson from Amplify. Amplify organise and facilitate events and workshops, focusing on music, arts and culture. The Youth Art Exhibition is just one of many vibrant events hosted by the Amplify Committee this year. From the North East Skate Park Series to the youth stages and areas at the Jamieson Autumn Festival and Lantern Festival, Amplify continues to build a thriving creative community for young people.

Youth Art Exhibition celebrates local talent

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