The fascinating world of Generative AI has recently sparked discussions on its impact on various fields, including artistic practice. While a comprehensive exploration of this topic would require a longer format, a recent Harvard study offered a particularly insightful perspective that resonates deeply with the VCE classes of Visual Communication Design, Media, and Art Creative Practice. 

 “… much of what we term ‘creative’ and ‘critical’ thinking occurs via subconscious processes that rely on internalized knowledge…This explains why experts almost always demonstrate stronger problem-solving skills than novices….”  (Harvard.edu, 2024).  

This concept beautifully aligns with the experiences of our VCE Visual Arts students. As their artistic practice flourishes, they accumulate knowledge and evolve into ‘experts’ themselves. This acquired expertise empowers them to showcase their creative and critical thinking – a capacity that develops from a foundation of deep, internalised knowledge. 

Returning to the theme of expertise and deep knowledge, I would like to highlight Year 12 student Millie McIntosh’s recent work as a striking example. In 70 minutes, she completed a finely toned life-sized realistically drawn figure. I refer to this as getting in your ‘flow.’ To get to the stage that Millie can knock out a drawing of this calibre and realism in 70 short minutes, is a result of weeks of experimenting, exploring, investigating, testing, and trialling of drawing and deep observation.  

Millie’s talent did not spring forth fully formed; it was cultivated through countless hours of deliberate practice. Millie’s journey mirrors that of many other VCE Art students whose work is currently on display. Through persistent dedication and a commitment to deep learning, they have developed the expertise necessary to apply their creative thinking and produce exceptional artwork. 

Artwork by Jialing(Fiona) Zhu, Year 12

Welcome to the 2024 VCE Art Show; a place to highlight deep internalised knowledge and creative and critical thinking. The VCE Art Show opens in the Dorothy Pizzey Centre, Friday 11 October from 6.00 to 8.00pm.  

Unlike past years, our guest speaker XaSha Chua-Huggins (’18) will open the show at 6.15pm so we encourage you to arrive for the speeches before entering the Show.  

Over the years, I have noticed that many students and their families love to have a longer, slower look. The VCE Art Show re-opens Saturday and Sunday from 2.00 to 4.00pm. The Exhibition will continue to be open during school hours on Monday 14 October and until 12.30pm on Tuesday 15 October. We look forward to hosting this significant exhibition again in 2024.