Picture this! Young artists in the frame for fancy fundraiser

By Wendy Shaw

A small school with a giant helping of artistic talent and determination staged a gala art evening.

St Joseph’s Catholic School at Rosebery held a celebration of art entitled ‘A Little Big Fancy’ on 6 November.

The dress code was ‘fancy’ and visitors were invited to marvel as the school’s talented artists showcased their masterpieces.

There were giraffe studies, portraits, sculpted creatures of the deep, vibrant floral works and other items of wonder, creativity and imagination filling the school’s MacKillop Hall Art Gallery.

With a gold coin donation on entry and a silent auction of selected works, the event raised an impressive $1,034.10 for the St Vincent de Paul Society. The school has an enrolment of just 51.

Principal Tracey Kidd congratulated the young artists and thanked the dedicated staff who had taught skills and inspired confidence.

As she welcomed guests on the night, Mrs Kidd said: “Tonight is not just an exhibition of art. It is a reflection of the wonder God has placed in each child—their ability to think, design, imagine, and make meaning from the world around them.

“In the words of St John Paul II, ‘Artistic talent is a gift from God and whoever discovers it in himself has a certain obligation: to know that he cannot waste this talent, but must develop it [1999 Letter to Artists]’.

“This evening, we are witnessing the fruits of that development: hours of practice, exploration and brave expression.”

“To our students: thank you. Thank you for your courage in creating something new and sharing it with us. Some of you have painted, others have sculpted, sketched, or blended different forms of media. Every piece tells a story. Every piece is a gift we are privileged to see.”

Mrs Kidd thanked ‘visionary art teacher’ Skye Robertson for putting her heart into every lesson.

“You make [students] feel safe to try new things, knowing you are there to walk the journey of discovery with them,” she said.

“Our beautiful school is truly blessed that you have found us and chosen to share your gifts so generously.”

Mrs Kidd also thanked parents and families for supporting the budding artists and the Parents and Friends’ Association for sponsoring the fancy food and promoting the event in the community.

Mrs Kidd added afterwards: “It really was such a joyful celebration of our students’ art and I am immensely proud of our community for getting involved so wholeheartedly.

“It was a wonderful surprise to see how everyone’s efforts contributed to the donation for St Vincent de Paul.”