By Ms Dimity Kidston, Acting Head of Creative Arts

The Year 9 Visual Art students recently completed a challenging unit, where they explored the complexities of portraiture. This unit encouraged students to delve deeper into the art of capturing human expressions, emotions and personalities, while honing their technical skills and artistic vision in the process.

As a culmination of their efforts, a few students submitted their portraits to the prestigious Young Archie competition. This annual event, inspired by the renowned Archibald Prize, celebrates the talents of young artists across Australia.

Among the submissions, Radford student, Olivia Taleni’s work stood out, earning her a spot in the top 5% of the competition. This recognition is a testament to the Olivia’ skill, dedication, and the ability to convey depth and emotion through her work.

Olivia Taleni

Tomesina, 2024

Coloured pencil and gouache on A3 paper.

This is my dad, Tomesina Taleni, doing his daily ritual of messing around on the piano. I think it says a lot about him. He is a great pianist who can play any song just by hearing it once, and often times he makes it sound even better. The shirt, which he frequently wears, shows his Polynesian heritage. He is a big influence in my life, teaching me his culture and his musical talents. I am very thankful to have him as my dad.

Maeve Bambrick

Portrait of Lizzie, 2024

Acrylic on paper

Lizzie, the person depicted in the portrait, has always been an incredibly bright person. This is represented in the painting through bright colours and the rays of light coming off the figure. It is intended as a tribute to a friend, because said friend wanted her face displayed in a gallery.

Qihui Chen

My Dad, 2024

Coloured Pencil


In my drawing, I decided to draw my dad. My dad is a very hardworking man who often works long hours for our family. He is a very funny and humble guy and I want to be more like him. I chose to draw him as he is an important part of my life and is my role model. He is the best dad in the world, and I wouldn’t ask for more.

Isabella Scalora

My Older Brother with my Cousin’s Dogs, 2024

Coloured Pencil on Paper

People say that animals are one of the best judges of character and I agree. Whenever we run into them, they always go to my older brother, no matter if it’s the first or the hundredth time that they’ve met him. He is one of the most kind-hearted and caring people that I know, but also one of the most important people in my life. I chose this picture especially as it was a happy moment in time during a family gathering, and the first time I met such lovely, cuddly and energetic dogs. It was very inspiring and heart-warming to see such an endearing sight that I could not help but put my artistic spin on it with my use of coloured pencils.