Alumnus Duncan Barnes (Class 1990) officially opened this year’s exhibition. An accomplished photographer, Duncan has built a reputation within the music industry, photographing live international performances for major venues, promoters and artists. He is also an educator who shares his knowledge, expertise and creative practice with students and the wider photographic community.
The evening also acknowledged our graduating Year 12 Visual Arts students and their contribution to the arts during their time at the College. Visual Arts Captain Claire Sweet spoke on behalf of the graduating class before the presentation of the 2026 Visual Arts awards.
Recognising student achievement
Six awards were presented on the night, each honouring a different aspect of artistic achievement and commitment.
Sister Theresa Elliott Encouragement Award: Mia (Year 8). Named after College Archivist Sister Theresa (Tess) Elliott, the award recognises a Year 7 or 8 student who has worked to their full potential and demonstrated consistent commitment, creativity and enthusiasm in Art and Pottery.
John XXIII College Staff Award: Monet (Year 11) received the John XXIII College Staff Award for her artwork You are Loved and Safe. The award is determined by College staff, who were invited to view the exhibition and vote for their favourite Secondary student artwork.
2026 College Art Competition: Miriam (Year 9). Open to students from Years 7 to 12, the competition invited students to create an artwork in their own time, with entries judged on creativity, originality and the application of media, skills and processes.
Loreto Sisters Award: Joel (Year 11). This award acknowledges an artwork that reflects the values and guiding characteristics associated with the Loreto Sisters and Mary Ward, including courage, commitment, faith and generosity.
Arlene Nedeljkovic Rising Star Award: Sophie (Year 9). Dedicated to the late Arlene Nedeljkovic, who taught Art at the College for 25 years from 1983 to 2008, the award recognises a Year 9 or 10 student who demonstrates outstanding artistic ability, commitment and dedication across more than one Visual Arts subject.
Principal’s Award: The evening’s final honour, the Principal’s Award, was presented to Year 12 student Claire Sweet, recognising her excellence in attitude and work ethic, artistic achievement and ongoing commitment and contribution to Visual Arts during her time at the College.
A celebration of the creative arts
Beyond the awards, the exhibition showcased the breadth of talent and creativity within our student community. Guests were also invited to have their say through the People’s Choice Award, voting for their favourite media and artworks. The Visual Arts Exhibition formed part of a wider evening celebrating the creative arts, with guests also invited to attend the media night viewing and screening.
Grounded in the Ignatian tradition of finding God in all things, Visual Arts at the College encourages students to look closely at the world around them and respond with honesty and care. The 2026 Visual Arts Exhibition reflected this in the imagination, skill and dedication of our students, and in the support of teachers and community members who guide their growth as artists.
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