By Tanya Steele
YAVA’s Youth Art 2023 has opened for submissions, and is calling for youth between 15 to 25 across the Yarra Ranges Shire to submit their work to be considered for an exhibition later in the year.
Reggie Clark from YAVA is excited to support young people in their artistic journeys.
“It’s a great opportunity to show your work,” she said.
All forms of artistic practice are welcome, even musical-natured ones.
“Painting, sculpting, photography or maybe even a musical-based performance set,” Reggie said.
Artworks will be selected for the exhibition by a curatorial panel and must be available for the exhibition.
The artists will then receive support from YAVA in exhibiting and selling their work.
Mia Pensa, a former winner of Youth ART, when it was held at Art at Linden Gate in Yering Station, encouraged people to apply.
“It’s very daunting to start out and it was a great stepping stone for me – Youth ART was one of the first competitions I entered,” Mia said.
“I won two awards the second time.”
Mia appreciated the chance to compete and show her work and said it really helped her to gain that earlier experience.
“To put your work out for the very first time and to be encouraged is a good feeling,” she said.
Mia has since gone on to sell her work internationally and attributes a number of factors to her success.
She also encourages new and emerging artists to trust themselves and apply.
“Create something unique, make art that speaks to you, that will get you so much further,” Mia said.
The exhibition will feature a People’s Choice award with a major prize yet to be determined.
Submissions are due by 16 May at 5 pm, head to the YAVA website for more information.
