CYI students dazzle guests at the Artworks! opening night
Eighteen budding artists got their chance to shine this December at the opening night of the 2011 Creative Youth Initiatives (CYI) Artworks! exhibition entitled “See Why I”.
Held at the Muse Gallery at TAFE Ultimo, the night showcased the amazing talent of each student and the results of a year of hard work. More than 100 people turned up to catch their first glimpse of the students' work, show their support, and snap up some original pieces at a bargain price.
One of the highlights of the evening was guest speaker Hayley, a graduate of the 2009 Artworks! program, who gave a moving and inspirational speech about her time at CYI and what she has gone on to achieve.
In her own words, Hayley entered the program three years ago “with nothing to lose, but a whole lot to gain”. Her time at CYI provided her with a place where she felt safe, supported & encouraged. She explained how the course transformed her from thinking of herself as a “failure” to someone with self-belief and direction.
Hayley now works in childcare having returned to education and completed her qualifications. One of the points she highlighted is that there are so many opportunities open to graduates of the Artworks! program, and fine arts is only one of these. “I didn’t expect to end up working in childcare” she remarked, “But I love working with young people and I enjoy my job so much. I wanted to let this year’s students know that no matter what path you end up following, the time you spent at CYI will help you on your journey.”
The night was capped off with the presentation of the Sir David Martin Foundation Scholarships for 2011 students. Roland, Eric, Sarah, Kaylee and James were all awarded scholarships to help them further their education and achieve their long term career goals.
Sarah, a recipient, was “absolutely thrilled” to receive her scholarship. She is putting her grant towards vocational training – and will be keeping busy in 2012 by undertaking a secretarial course, RSA, RCE and a barista course. Having left school in year 11, Sarah plans to utilise this extra training to secure a job and move into her own rental property.
Congratulations to all the students who exhibited their work at the exhibition. The night was a truly inspiring celebration of young creativity and potential.
About Creative Youth Initiatives
Based in Sydney’s Surry Hills, Creative Youth Initiatives provides free creative programs for young people aged 16 to 25, who are facing many and varied challenges in their lives, such as homelessness, mental health issues, substance abuse, family breakdown, unemployment and poor educational experiences.
Read more about CYI
Scroll down for photos of the event
