It’s hard to believe the Playlist exhibition is the first exhibition for many of the NETschool learners whose art is on display.

The walls of Dudley House are currently filled with art—whether done by paint, fine liner, watercolour, or perhaps sculpture or fabric—all centered around the theme of ‘music’.

Such a broad theme allowed NETschool learners, and their mentors, to create a vast range of artworks, including photographs, garments and even an extremely realistic sculpture of an infant.

NETschool Coordinator, Lee Fitzgibbon, was honoured to launch the exhibition—the culmination of lots of hard work from students in the program.

“It’s a great thing; to be able to come together and celebrate your work,” she says.

BSSC’s Assistant Principal, Kylie Hand, said that the school community was extremely proud of every learner involved with the exhibition.

“Once again, I’m completely in awe of the amazing talent showcased in this exhibition,” she says.

“We are incredibly grateful to NETschool staff for allowing students the opportunity to showcase their work and build confidence to show that work to the public.”

Federal member for Bendigo, Lisa Chesters, was also proud to be at the event launch and witness the sheer talent possessed by the learners.

“I have been a supporter of NETschool since the beginning,” Lisa says. “It’s been wonderful to see the program grow to what it is today.”

Ms Chesters personally sponsors NETschool’s art exhibition each year and even has a display of art by NETschool learners from over the years displayed in her office in Canberra.

“It’s a big thing to put your ideas together, through art, voice and storytelling—and then share it.”

The opportunity to be art of the exhibition meant a lot to learners; some of whom have been creating art for years without formally showcasing it.

Annabelle, who joined NETschool in April this year, says Playlist was an exciting opportunity.

“It’s been a great chance for students to express themselves, come out of their shell and show they are capable of more than they think,” she says.

Entry to the exhibition is free—Playlist is showing at Bendigo’s Dudley House until 4:30pm this Thursday.