A local Ipswich student and teacher was honoured at last night’s Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) Excellence in Art and Design Awards.
Poppy Morrissey from Westside Christian College in Goodna topped the Prep, Year 1 and Year 2 category with her artwork, titled I want to be a ballerina when I grow up.
Art and Design Awards reviewer Julie Seidel said Poppy’s piece was a beautiful expression of life.
“I want to be a ballerina when I grow up’ is energetic and colourful, full of ambition and optimism,” Julie said.
Emelia Franz, a teacher at St Mary’s College in Ipswich received an Award of Excellence in the Open category for her entry, titled If I knew then…
Open category reviewer Jennifer Chaplin said Emelia’s piece involved a skilful application of media to showcase a life of experiences.
“Each symbol brings to the audience a journey of contemplation and true growth,” Jennifer said.
“Earthy in tones and bright like each of life’s lessons and our final destination,” she said.
The annual Art Awards were established in 1994 to promote and encourage artistic students and celebrate their flair for creativity.
At last night’s presentation, held at the Queensland Multicultural Centre in Brisbane, Awardees’ artworks were displayed in an exhibition and recipients were presented with certificates and a cash prize.
IEU-QNT Branch Secretary Terry Burke said the reviewers were wowed by the quality of the over 600 submissions across all age groups in response to the 2024 theme of ‘Growing Up’.
“The reviewers commented on the high standard of entries and the varied and creative interpretations that entrants brought to this year’s theme,” Mr Burke said.
“Our union established the Awards to promote and encourage artistic students and celebrate their flair for creativity.
“Art is a very important area of learning in schools, and IEU-QNT is proud to support the artistic talent of students and staff in the Queensland and Northern Territory non-government sector,” he said.
