Budding young artists travel to Sydney to explore creative talents and career paths

Twelve talented young artists from regional and outer suburban communities in NSW and ACT will travel to Sydney during the October school holidays for a unique opportunity to develop and showcase their art, at a workshop run by the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) and children’s education charity The Smith Family.

The four-day Bella Momentum workshop, which runs from 8-12 October, is staged twice a year for selected Year 10 and 11 students on The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program who are studying art subjects at school or have a strong interest in artistic pursuits.

The workshop provides an exciting schedule of activities to hone their creative talents, encourage their learning and inspire arts-related career options.

Under the guidance of MCA Artist Educators and exhibiting artists, students will explore a range of creative techniques and mediums, including sculptural works, sketching and printing. Over the four days, they will create a body of artwork and build a portfolio.

At the workshop’s completion on Friday 12 October, students will present their works at a gallery exhibition at the MCA for family and friends.

Year 10 student Kate, who has previously done the workshop, said: “I really enjoyed taking part in the workshop and although exhibiting artwork at the MCA was out of my comfort zone, I learned that I really could do it. In fact, I felt really special doing so.

“In particular, I liked making sculptures and I learned I do want to pursue art after I finish school.”

Kim McClintock, Programs Coordinator at The Smith Family, said: “This workshop provides access to people and experiences these students might not otherwise be exposed to. As well as developing their skills and self-confidence, it can open their eyes to a world of opportunities they didn’t know existed.

“The students come away from the week with a stronger belief in their abilities and a greater understanding of study and career paths offered within the arts sector.”

Now in its sixteenth year, Bella Momentum is a collaboration between The Smith Family, MCA, Perpetual and Macquarie Group Foundation.

Media Enquiries: Media Advisor – Lisa Harmer | 0466 955 633 | lisa.harmer@thesmithfamily.com.au