The exhibition comprises works by 23 students from Kurri Kurri High, Cessnock High and St Philip’s Christian College who completed the visual arts course in the 2017 HSC.

Gallery chairperson Katrina Rose said the exhibition, which is in its third year, provides a rare opportunity for these young artists to hang their work in a regional gallery for the community to view and appreciate.

“Many an aspiring artist would kill for that opportunity,” she said.

Ms Rose said the chance to have their works on public display gives the students something to work towards.

Cessnock High year 12 student Gemma Passfield, 16, studied the HSC visual arts course in 2017 under the school’s College system (in which students complete three HSC courses in year 11 and three in year 12).

Titled My Language Matters, Our Language Matters, Gemma’s piece is an Aboriginal art work focusing on her family tree, the Gomeroi people.

The exhibition will be officially opened on Saturday, January 13 at 5pm, and will continue until Sunday, February 11.

The gallery is located at 16 Vincent Street, Cessnock and is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm.