BARGAINS GALORE AT SCU's ANNUAL ARTS SHOWCASE

From November 9-16, Southern Cross University's Visual Arts building will become a creative showcase for the diverse artworks of graduating students in the fields of painting, ceramics, printmaking, sculpture, drawing, photography and digital artworks.

As well as being welcome to enjoy one of the North Coast's best annual exhibitions free of charge, visitors will have the chance to buy quality works at excellent prices, according to the Head of SCU's School of Contemporary Arts, Ms Jan Davis.

The show has attracted a range of leading local sponsors, including Southern Cross University Union Shop, Northern Rivers Echo, North Coast Radiology, The New Camera Store, Caddies and Café Millennium Japanese restaurant, according to senior lecturer and sponsorship coordinator, John Smith.

"This year's show features 45 graduating arts students whose broad selection of works are of a high creative standard," Mr. Smith said. "Many past graduates have gone on to become collectable artists and this is an excellent opportunity for local people to acquire works at very affordable prices."

He added that the students' works were the culmination of three years study, research and experimentation, a period spent in close liaison with the University's accomplished Visual Arts staff.

"Our staff members are all practising, exhibiting artists and we have tailored a program that prepares students for the professionalism and academic rigour of the contemporary art world. Many of these graduates will go on to become active in art practice, gallery management and curating, and education.

The exhibition commences with a spectacular opening from 6.00pm-8.00pm on Friday November 9 and runs until Friday 16 (excluding Sunday) from 10.00am - 4.00pm.