By Mrs Monique Glavonjic, Parents & Friends Administrator

We are thrilled to announce that the recent 40^th Artshow@Radford exceeded all expectations, showcasing the incredible talent within our College and wider Canberra community. The show attracted a record-breaking number of attendees and sales on the Gala Opening night. The event, which took place from Friday 17 May to Sunday 19 May was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

This year's art show saw a remarkable increase in attendance, with many art enthusiasts, students, College staff, and community members coming together to show their appreciation for the arts.

The gala opening night of the art show in the newly transformed T.B Millar Hall was a grand affair, marked by an air of excitement and anticipation. The event was launched by the Parents & Friends President, Mrs Stephanie Hinton alongside our guest judge Mr Robert Stephens, owner of the Aarwun Gallery. We launched our Junior School House banners created by our First Nations Artist in Residence, Ms Jodie Munday and a number of junior school students who commenced work on these banners in 2022. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with the artists, explore the captivating artworks and purchase works. The sales from the opening night alone surpassed all previous records, reflecting the high quality and desirability of the artwork on display.

Former Radford College teacher, Jonquil Mackay’s daughter, Bridget Mackay recorded a video that was played at the Gala opening to honour her mother who passed away in 2018. Ms Mackay thanked the College for keeping her mother's spirt alive with the first prize award that has her name attached to is, and added that her mother would have been very proud to see the works on display.

One of the standout features of this year's art show was the incredible diversity of artists and artworks represented. We were proud to have a significant increase in the number of registered artists, showcasing their unique perspectives and creativity across various mediums. The wide array of works, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media, truly captivated the audience and provided a feast for the senses.

Mr Stephens had the challenging task of selecting standout pieces for the awards. The chosen artworks demonstrated exceptional artistic skill, innovation, and thought-provoking concepts, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the opportunity to view them.

1st Prize – In honour of Jonquil Mackay and thanks to the Radford Collegians $2000 – Tatiana Caines, Walking in Bimberri.

2nd Prize – Highly Commended and thanks to Perm-a-Pleat $1000 – Benjamin van Eldik The purpose of Life is to Live it.

3rd Prize – Emerging Artist and thanks to the Radford Foundation $500 - Robert Wynton, Out of Gas.

Our student awards were announced during the art show on Sunday 19 May, and we congratulate the following students. The student cash prizes were thanks to the generous support of ISC Sport.

Secondary School:

1st Prize – Petra Belgun, Year 12

2nd Prize – Imogen Wallace, Year 9

Junior School:

1st Prize – Tahlia Smith, Year 5

2nd Prize – Ivy Jin, Year 5

Long time returning artist, Andrew Smith won the People’s Choice Award for his stunning work Where the Snowy River Rises.

The committee’s new initiative for this Artshow@Radford was a Paint & Sip evening. It was such a success, that we will be bringing this back in 2025.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the artists, attendees, Interim Principal Mr Andy Gordon, Interim Deputy Principal, Head of Junior School, Ms Karen Mahar, Deputy Principal, Head of Secondary School Mr Brad Cooney, the curator of the exhibition, Mrs Camelia Smith, our art teachers, our sponsors including QOTE our printing provider, volunteers and lastly a wonderful Parents & Friends committee who contributed to the success of this year's art show. Your support and passion for the arts have made this event a truly memorable experience.

We look forward to continuing to nurture and celebrate the artistic talents within our College community in the years to come.