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Gilroy’s Teaching and Arts Department Georgia Dametto, GSMC Principal Johanna Smith, and Gilroy’s Teaching and Arts Department Gemma Kennedy Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Gilroy Santa Maria College has officially opened its 2026 student art exhibition at Tyto Regional Gallery, unveiling a colourful and creative collection under the theme Threads of Growth.
The opening night on Friday, 3rd July brought together students, staff, families and community members to celebrate the work of Year 7 to Year 12 student artists, with the gallery transformed into a vibrant showcase of imagination and expression.
Councillor Donna Marbelli officially opened the exhibition, praising students for their creativity and willingness to share their work publicly.
"I know sharing your artwork with others can feel a little daunting, but every piece on display tells a story, reflects your unique perspective and showcases your creativity. You should all be incredibly proud of what you have achieved."
She also acknowledged the broader school community for supporting student learning and artistic development.
"I'd also like to sincerely thank the teachers, support staff, parents and carers. Thank you for the time, encouragement and dedication you invest in these students. Your support helps nurture confidence, creativity and a lifelong appreciation for the arts."
Student artist Charlotte DiBella said having her work, Day’s Last Sigh, displayed in a public gallery was both exciting and meaningful.
“My painting was a sunset that I took a picture of, and I just thought that it captured a very emotional image of the day's last sigh.”
Speaking about the experience of exhibiting her work, she said it represented an important step forward as an emerging artist.
“I think, as an emerging artist, it really just feels like I'm actually getting somewhere, and I get to show people my art, and they get to look at it, and enjoy it.”
She acknowledged the process was initially intimidating but ultimately rewarding.
“It was kind of a bit intimidating at first when my teacher told me that we were going to be hanging these in the gallery because I've never really shown off my artwork before, but I think that it's a pretty beautiful piece, and it deserves to be shared with people.”
The exhibition, titled Threads of Growth, features works from across the secondary school and was described on opening night as a “kaleidoscope of colours”, reflecting student imagination, experimentation and development.
The Arts Department, including Mrs Dametto, Ms Kennedy and Ms Fontana, were acknowledged for their work in coordinating the exhibition, with students and staff also contributing time during the school holidays to install the display.
Gilroy Santa Maria College encouraged the community to visit the exhibition during the school holidays, with works on display at Tyto Regional Gallery until 23rd July.
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