Community & Business
23 May, 2021
Youth shine in art competition
The Oakey Youth Project’s Dis/Connect art competition has unearthed the artistic talent of several local young people with the award-winning works now on display in businesses and community centres around the district.
The competition brought together local budding young artists and established Indigenous artists Susie Klein and Damon Miri Anderson to create works addressing the theme of community connection.
The top seven works are now on display at various location businesses and centres and have been published in the free Dis/ Connect Zine.
The 15 to 17 years category winner, Annabelle Jervis, took the theme in an original direction with her piece, titled ‘Biophilia’.
The artwork, which features a stylised neck and collarbone that works as a vase for a bunch of flowers, depicts connection between humans and naturE.
“Biophilia basically means the desire to be connected with the natural world,” Annabelle said.
“I got the idea from the human connection to nature because that is something that was missing during COVID.
“I think that connection is so important.
“I have never had an opportunity like this before.
“I saw the competition pop up in the mail box. I thought this was soo cool and I figured I would give it
a go and enter something.”
The 16-years-old art student now has her first prize winning entry on display at The Oakey Pharmacy which is owned by her parents Nathan and Carla Jervis.
Annabelle said the family connection makes the achievement extra special.
The competition was hosted by the Toowoomba Regional Council run Oakey Youth Project.
Environment and Community Services Committee chair Cr James
O’Shea encouraged all local residents to view the works of the town’s talented young artists.
“Seven art pieces are located at various locations and businesses around the Oakey CBD until June 30, 2021,” he said.
“Council and the Oakey Youth Project thank and acknowledge Oakey’s young people for sharing their experiences and interpretation of being either disconnected or connected to their wider community during the COVID-19 shutdown.”
The artworks are currently on display at Oakey Information Centre, Oakey Library, Bi-Rite Home Appliances, Goondir Health Services and Great Country Pies as well as The Oakey Pharmacy.
The free Dis/Connect Art Zine is also available to pick up at these stores.
For more information go to: www.tr.qld.gov. au/community-business/ community-support/ youth/14016-oakey-youth- project
