The Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre will present EMERGE for the second consecutive year, with the 2026 exhibition running from 17 April to 3 May. Bringing together work from four local high school, the exhibition will showcase the creative achievements of Stage I and Stage II Visual Art students from across Mount Gambier.

Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre and Cultural Development Director Ashleigh Whatling said the exhibition reflects both the depth of local creative talent and the centre’s commitment to nurturing emerging artists.

“This exhibition brings you some outstanding works from graduates of Mount Gambier High School, Grant High School, Tenison Woods College and St Martins Lutheran College. As a leading regional gallery, we pride ourselves in supporting local talent and young emerging artists through partnering with our secondary schools. I invite you to celebrate the youth of Mount Gambier and engage with the next generation’s creative practices,” Ms Whatling said.

Riddoch Assistant Curator Saskia Scott highlighted the richness and diversity the exhibition will showcase.

“It was fantastic to visit the four high schools and see the emerging talent in our region. The exhibition reflects the diversity of mediums and themes that the students have chosen to explore as part of their studies in SACE Stage I and II,” Ms Scott said.

“There are exciting and innovative works in video and animation, photography, sculpture, drawing and painting. This year’s EMERGE exhibition has some particularly strong examples of portraiture, highlighting the artists’ family, friends and heroes.”

Emerge 26 will be on display on the King’s Floor at The Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre from 17 April to 3 May 2026 and will culminate with a closing celebration on Thursday 30 April at 5:00pm. The public are invited to attend this free event.

The Riddoch is open to the public 10:00am to 4:00pm Monday to Friday and 10:00am to 2:00pm weekends and most public holidays. For more information about this or upcoming exhibitions please visit the Riddoch website at www.theriddoch.com.au