The exhibition is a collection of expressive self-portraits painted by students from Goulburn North Public and Mulwaree High Schools. It featured 31 outstanding works from the students.

The portrait exhibition was officially launched on August 1, with more than 70 local students in attendance, as well as their families, teaching staff, and the school’s executive – who all gathered to support the outstanding achievements of the budding artists.

Mayor Geoff Kettle said he was not surprised by the quality and creativity shown by the students.

“Both Goulburn North Public and Mulwaree High Schools have demonstrated outstanding results in a wide area of pursuits for many years,” he said.

“They have worked together to achieve this collection and it is the result of the dedication and commitment not only of local students, but also of the talented local teaching staff.”

The idea for a project coinciding with the local hosting of the Archibald Prize exhibition was developed by the two school principals, Michael Hooker and Martin Purcell, with a view to developing social and pastoral links between high school and primary school students.

Under the guidance of  Louanne Cranston and Toni Campbell (Visual Arts teachers at Mulwaree High School), students in Years 4, 5, 6 and 7 worked together on both school campuses to create their works of art.

The project took several weeks to complete and has also included an excursion to the National Portrait Gallery.

Goulburn Mulwaree Library education officer Michelle Stuart assisted with the organisation of the exhibition and the Mulwaree High School Food Technology faculty provided a delightful selection of cocktail food.

 Mulwaree High School music students performed at the opening.

The artworks are available for viewing in Goulburn Mulwaree Library until Tuesday, August 27.