Eve’s National Gallery Art Residency
When Year 11 student Eve applied for the National Summer Art Scholarship, she was driven by a genuine love of art, and a gentle nudge from her teacher, Ms Flora.
“I was inspired to apply because of my passion for art, and some encouragement from Ms Flora,” Eve shared. “I thought it would be a good experience to travel, meet new people and explore a possible future in the arts industry.”
That decision led to an extraordinary opportunity. The National Summer Art Scholarship is highly competitive, with only two students selected from each state and territory across Australia. Out of a large pool of applicants, just 16 young artists are chosen each year.
“When I found out I was selected, I was very excited and overwhelmed,” Eve said. “A lot of people apply, so I had a great sense of achievement being one of the 16 people chosen for my skill and passion.”
Behind the Scenes at the National Gallery of Australia
As part of the scholarship, Eve spent an immersive week in Canberra at the National Gallery of Australia (NGA). It wasn’t just a gallery visit – it was a rare, behind-the-scenes experience.
“It was a really inspiring and positive environment,” she explained. “We had the opportunity to meet a lot of the National Gallery staff and see what they do, and go places where other people are restricted from.”
From exploring the vast underground storage and private collections to observing curators and conservators at work, Eve gained insight into the many roles that bring an exhibition to life. She even learned about the delicate and highly skilled process of art conservation.
“We learnt about fixing a cracked painting, preserving natural materials such as wood, and the importance of respecting cultural art,” she said. “We saw how conservators work closely with Indigenous groups to preserve their history in art respectfully and reverently.”
For Eve, it was eye-opening. The experience revealed that the art world extends far beyond the canvas.
Learning from Leading Artists
Throughout the residency, Eve worked alongside some of Australia’s most respected and emerging artists, including Linda Jackson, Dylan Mooney and Aretha Brown. Eve also had the opportunity to meet the head directors of the National Gallery and present her work.
“All of the workshops and artist talks were inspiring, so it’s hard to choose a favourite,” Eve reflected.
One standout experience was a textiles workshop with renowned designer Linda Jackson.
“We did a fabric painting workshop, which was a fun and new way to approach painting, style and design,” she said. “The art-making processes were very free and explorative. The staff and artists encouraged us to discover and embrace our personal styles and try new things.”
It was a powerful reminder that creativity thrives in environments where young artists are trusted to take risks and develop their own voice.
A Creative Community for Life
One of the most meaningful aspects of the scholarship was the connection Eve formed with fellow young artists from across the country.
“Our week in Canberra was intense, with long days spent together making art, walking around the gallery, eating together and hanging out in the hotel,” she said. “The connections I’ve made are ones that will be life-long friendships.”
Meeting artists in their 20s who were already building successful careers also left a strong impression.
“It was impactful to see them being praised for their art as part of the National Gallery,” Eve said. “Working and getting to know different artists and gallery staff has given me inspiration and a deeper connection to established individuals in the industry. I’m forever grateful for their perseverance, encouragement and support.”
Looking Ahead
The National Summer Art Scholarship extends over 12 months, continuing to support students as they explore pathways in the arts.
For Eve, the experience has been transformative.
“It has completely shifted my perception of what I thought my career would be,” she said. “It showed me how many jobs and possibilities there are in the creative field and solidified my desire to pursue art, whether it’s educationally, behind the scenes, or professionally.”
She now hopes to return to Canberra, reconnect with her “National Gallery family”, and pursue further study and a career in fine arts.
Eve also has a clear message for future applicants.
“I would urge any Year 10 student to apply at the end of 2026 for this incredible opportunity. It’s truly worth putting yourself out there because you never know what will come of it.”
Eve’s journey is a powerful reminder of what can happen when passion meets opportunity, and when young women are encouraged to back themselves on a national stage.
- Creative Leadership, Featured, Fine Arts Pathways, Mercy Education, National Art Gallery Scholarship, National Gallery of Australia, Santa Maria College Perth, Student Art Residency, Student Success Stories, Young Women in the Arts
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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