Imagination takes centre stage: Riverina students celebrate Region's art competition success

The next generation of award-winning Riverina artists have won a share of almost $3000 in prizes for themselves and their schools.

As part of Region Riverina and Wagga Wagga Marketplace’s annual Primary School Art Competition, students from Forest Hill Public School and Kapooka Public School took home the prizes.

Region is passionate about telling local stories, so this year we wanted imagination and creativity to run wild with the theme “The Future of the Riverina.”

Forest Hill Public School students dominated the awards this year, with Gracie and Ruby winning first prize, Hannsa (Hannah) winning second, and Marissa winning third prize.

The People’s Choice Award was given to Mr Holloway’s Year Five and Six class from Kapooka Primary.

First place winners Ruby and Gracie were elated to have won the prize for their artwork.

“I feel incredibly happy and grateful,” said Ruby.

“It felt amazing! I didn’t think it would happen, and it didn’t feel real, but I’m so proud of myself and Ruby for having a go, and in the end, we won,” said Gracie.

The winning duo spent several hours on the artwork, which represents the Wiradjuri walking track and how it brings people together in one place.

“It symbolises all of us coming together, no matter what challenges arise,” Gracie said.

“We worked on the art together in our spare time during class and at lunchtimes in the library for around two weeks.”

Gracie and Ruby are hoping to go shopping together with their prize money at the Marketplace.

“We are also hoping the money that went to Forest Hill Public School goes towards creative arts for other students,” Ruby said.

Both students said it was important to run an art competition for schoolchildren in Wagga.

“I love this idea, and since art is so important to me, I feel truly happy and grateful to be part of this project. It feels special to be involved in something like this,” Ruby said.

“It’s pretty important for children to express themselves and show what they are passionate about,” Gracie said.

“I think they should keep doing it so people have the chance to create beautiful artwork for their chance to win.”

Forest Hill Public School Assistant Principal Zach Jackson said the school was ecstatic to have its efforts rewarded with the first, second, and third place prizes.

“Forest Hill Public School submitted five pieces of art created by eight students for the art competition,” Mr Jackson said. “Each of the pieces stayed at school, and the students worked tirelessly on them during their own recess and lunchtimes to complete the final products.

“All prize winners and competition entrants were very grateful to have had the opportunity to showcase their skill and creative side.

“Thank you to the Wagga Wagga Marketplace and Region Riverina for the opportunity.”

Kapooka Public School Principal Lyn Eacott said the students who participated in the art competition had to think about what they liked about Wagga, what they could do in the city, and how they could have a say in its future direction.

“This is particularly relevant to the students, as most have been here a relatively short time being Defence families,” Ms Eacott said.

“They really enjoyed collaborating to produce an artwork on a large scale.”

Marketplace community marketing manager Chloe Sutton said it was wonderful to witness the enthusiastic participation of numerous children and schools in this year’s competition.

“Our community was thrilled to admire the artworks in the centre, with many commenting on the skill and imagination of the children of the Riverina,” Ms Sutton said.

“The Marketplace would like to thank all participants for sharing their artworks, and we encourage all young artists to continue their creative journeys. Congratulations to the winners; your achievements are well deserved.”

Region is passionate about the power of local stories to connect and inspire our communities, and we hope this competition will inspire young artists to continue exploring their creativity and sharing their unique stories with the region.

“I love seeing kids getting excited about art and celebrating what’s great about where we live,” said Region Riverina Editor Chris Roe.

“This exhibition is an awesome chance for aspiring artists to exhibit their works and support their schools,” he said.

“I think that one of the problems with spaces like museums and art galleries is that they can be a bit intimidating and disconnected from everyday life. I think the Wagga Marketplace does a great job of putting art and storytelling in a popular public place where the people are.”