Young Arts Award empowers district’s creative future

ARTSNATIONAL Narrabri Young Arts Award representatives Graeme Compton and Judy Pownall presented Anna and Judah Stuart with senior and junior awards respectively, on Saturday 13 June.

Anna and Judah were selected from nine nominations and applications received by the arts organisation. They are the daughter and son of Narrabri residents James and Jessica Stuart.

Anna, 17-years-old and the recipient of a senior award of $800, is a young artist with strengths in piano, drama, and visual and digital art. Her dedication and ability to produce an outcome on time, and her potential to grow and specialise, made her a deserving nominee for the award. Anna’s creative abilities are continuing to flourish in her HSC year with her selected subject of visual arts. Anna demonstrates an ability to translate her imagination into compelling works, combining technical skill with a distinctive artistic style. In drama, she shows equal passion creating narratives, scripts and set designs, alongside her strong performance skills.

The funds will enable Anna to attend specialised courses and workshops in visual, digital and performing arts, further developing her technical and creative skills. These opportunities will help her explore career pathways, connect with industry professionals, and build a clearer pathway into future study or meaningful work, which can be tougher to access in regional areas.

Judah, 15 years old and the recipient of the junior award of $400, is a motivated young learner who demonstrates drive and creativity. Judah has been committed to learning the cello for the past two-and-a-half years and lessons have been conducted online, with a 600km round trip once a term for face-to-face lessons in Armidale. A dedicated and motivated musician, Judah began learning the cello in year 6 after being inspired by its sound. Since then, he has committed to regular practice through his online lessons, showing persistence and a genuine love for music.

Judah has a strong musical ear, a natural singing ability, and with greater access to learning and performance opportunities, he will be able to further develop his musical confidence.

The funds will support Judah’s cello tuition, including access and travel to in-person lessons and ensemble or workshop opportunities that are not readily available in a regional area. These experiences will help him develop his skills, build confidence playing with others, and deepen his engagement with music. The funding will also allow him to begin vocal training, supporting a broader interest in music.

Each year ArtsNational Narrabri selects a school or arts-related student group or individuals in the district to receive a Young Arts award, targeting schools, local bands, and inquiring with arts teachers in the search for talented students. All aspects of the arts are covered – music, vocals, dance, theatre, photography, filmmaking, artwork, wood/metalwork, textiles, sculpture and literature.