This film highlights insights from our Visual Arts mentorship groups, who had the opportunity to meet in person from across regional NSW.

Among all the mentorship artforms in the Horizons program, Visual Arts had the largest number of participants, with the most diverse range of interests in mediums and creative approaches. Three full groups formed the Visual Arts cohort, each guided by mentors Karma Barnes, Stephen Bird, and Isabelle Devos.

As part of the Horizons program, all three groups came together to attend the Sydney Contemporary Art Fair at Carriageworks in Sydney. For aspiring artists, visiting exhibitions is essential for creative inspiration. Equally important, however, is understanding how artists are represented by galleries in commercial contexts—how networking and building connections with other artists and galleries can lead to future opportunities, including attracting collectors.

During their visit to Sydney Contemporary, the participants were guided through the exhibits by their mentors. They engaged in discussions about the artworks they found compelling and had conversations with gallery staff to deepen their understanding. Mentor Stephen Bird, who is represented by Olsen Gallery and had an installation at the fair, facilitated a valuable session where participants spoke with Adam Simms about professional practice and the process of gaining gallery representation.

Visual Arts Showcase

Visual Arts – Groups 1, 2 & 3

From Left to right: Lorenna Caron, Ian Douglan Emmot Fleming, Georgia Barton, Scout McKenzie, Kasey Tudor, Hattie Brealey

Not Pictured: Nathanial Martin, Kayla Amos, Amanda Roach, Dean Schatzman, Karma Barnes, Stephen Bird, Isabelle Devos

Short Film Director/DOP: Andrew Robinson

Shortfilm Producer: Hiromi Matsuoka

Photography: Issabelle Devos and Hiromi Matsuoka