On Thursday, the group of 30 talented Year 10 students toured the Bendigo Art Gallery and Visual Arts Centre, where they were treated to talks from curator Paul Northan and artist Ronnie van Hout.

Mr van Hout’s artwork, BED/SIT was part of the Hiding in Plain Sight exhibit and the intriguing multimedia work prompted questions from the students. 

Bendigo South East College student Olivia Ryan has a passion for painting and drawing. She said the day of art opened her eyes to other mediums as well. 

“We learned a lot about symbolism, and​ other art elements – like sound, movement and smell,” she said. 

Jack Johns from Crusoe College said he hoped to become a graphic designer and he enjoyed hearing from Mr van Hout about his creation. 

“I didn't really understand it at first, but when he described how it was built like a set design, it brought it more into focus. It really made more sense,” he said. 

Mr van Hout said it was promising to show young people careers in the art world do exist. 

“It’s always great to have the opportunity to explain your work to students and young people interested in art,” he said. 

The Art Specialisation Adventure Day was designed to give aspiring creatives a unique insight into the art industry. 

Specialist Arts Leader Helen Attrill said the day was a chance for students considering artistic careers to take time out from their regular school day and delve into art. 

“Days like these are great ways to target the gifted and talented students in the government schools and show them that there is a world of art careers and pathways for students with a strong interest in the visual arts,” Ms Attrill said.