The McDonald College 2026 Art & Design Show
Term 3 has been a busy and productive semester for both the Visual Arts and Design & Technology departments. Students have focused on developing their practical making skills while continuing their studies in art history and criticism, design case studies, and technological investigation.
In Visual Arts, students approached their artmaking with purpose, creativity and enthusiasm as they prepared works for the Art & Design Show held in Week 6. Artworks from Kindergarten to Year 11 were developed around the theme “On the Edge” and showcased a diverse range of media and ideas. Highlights included imaginative Year 6 drawings exploring places where land meets sea, Year 7 lino prints depicting Australian endangered birds, a magnificent Year 8 installation of wire and wool ghost-net inspired sea creatures, Year 9 collaborative charcoal still life drawings, Year 10 abstract landscape paintings, and a vibrant display of wearable sculptural costumes by Year 11 students. Numerous additional artworks from our junior students transformed corridors and shared spaces throughout the Primary School. Congratulations to all students who invested time and effort into producing work of such a high standard.
Congratulations to all students who invested time and effort into producing work of such a high standard.
A particular highlight of the exhibition was the display of the HSC Visual Arts Bodies of Work. Despite the demands of completing multiple major projects across a range of subjects, our Year 12 students dedicated many hours to the development and refinement of their artworks. As always, I was delighted by the diversity of approaches to artmaking, with students exploring painting, printmaking, drawing, photography and film. The calibre of the work was exceptional, and students took great pride in exhibiting their achievements. HSC marking of the Year 12 Bodies of Work will conclude at the end of Week 4, Term 4.
See artworks here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1A4AmbF7B3/
Design & Technology students also demonstrated impressive creativity and technical skill through the use of a wide range of materials and technologies. Year 7 students designed and created electronic felt animal masks that now enliven the foyer beneath the stairs and can also be seen featured in digital prints worn by their makers. Year 8 students refined their jewellery-making skills through the design and production of personalised keyrings featuring self-developed symbols. Meanwhile, Year 9 and 10 students designed and laser-cut timber lampshades that have transformed the Fab Lab and Art Foyer into spectacular illuminated display spaces.
Year 11 Design & Technology students successfully completed their individual Minor Design Projects, while the HSC class demonstrated creativity, innovation and sophisticated design thinking through their Major Design Projects and accompanying folios. Their work reflected a deep understanding of materials, sustainability, target markets and project management. We are thrilled that both Angus McCormack and Max Schneider have had their Major Design Projects nominated for the prestigious SHAPE Exhibition.
Congratulations to all students on their outstanding efforts and achievements throughout the term and to the teachers who have guided and helped them at every stage along the way.
Jane Poiner
Head of Visual Arts | Head of Design and Technology
