“Sculpture From Within” was the clever name of an exhibition of work created by students at Sunning Hill Education and Training Centre inside Juniperina Juvenile Justice Centre at Lidcombe.

The exhibition was opened on March 25 by Archibald Prize-winning artist, Wendy Sharpe, who praised the girls’ imagination and commitment to the project.

Two New Scheme art teachers who are working towards their accreditation devised the project and encouraged students to participate in all areas of the exhibition, right down to serving canapés at the opening.

The exhibition included a mural painted by several students and their Aboriginal education assistant to symbolise the girls’ journeys to and from the school. The motifs represent areas of NSW, different countries of origin for some of the girls and loving memories of home.

The student artists wanted to design a work that would speak from their hearts, be inclusive of all the girls at Sunning Hill and leave a legacy for others, like a signpost along the way. The sculptural component of the show was inspired by Sydney’s popular “Sculpture by the Sea” event. Large pâpiermaché figures of a dolphin, goannas, fish, seagulls and a huge ice-cream cone were installed in a courtyard with a seaside theme.

At the exhibition opening, the principal, Marcia Vallance, welcomed guests from the departments of education and training and juvenile justice and distance education representatives.

Students, staff and guests enjoyed the opportunity to interact and discuss the impressive works on show.