Year 9 Visual Arts students recently embarked on an inspiring adventure to the Blue Mountains, immersing themselves in the breathtaking Australian landscape that will serve as the foundation for their first unit of work in 2026.

The excursion began at the spectacular Lincoln Rock lookout in Wentworth Falls, where students were captivated by sweeping views of the Jamison Valley. This setting provided the perfect opportunity to photograph the landscape and create small textural studies directly using the rock surfaces, encouraging close observation and creative engagement with the natural environment.

From there, students visited two local galleries to experience a diverse range of artistic approaches. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kate Soady from Moontree and Geoff White from Lost Bear Gallery, who generously shared their time, insights, and expertise. Their conversations offered students a deeper understanding of the role of contemporary artists and the varied practices that shape the Australian art scene.

The highlight of the day was travelling across the Jamison Valley via the Scenic Skyway and Railway. Descending into the lush rainforest, students continued to gather inspiration, experiencing firsthand the interplay of light, texture, and atmosphere that will inform their creative projects.

We eagerly anticipate the artworks that will emerge in Term 1 next year, enriched by this unforgettable excursion. Special thanks go to Mr Lewis and Mrs McMurray for their thoughtful coordination of such a valuable and exciting learning experience.