Young artist shines at MAG&M Out Front Exhibition

Northern Beaches Council congratulates Mia Nethery of Mackellar Girls Campus on being the Out Front 2026 KALOF People’s Choice Award winner for her painting, A Sunday Afternoon at Hartley.

Mia’s evocative work draws inspiration from the Blue Mountains, exploring both the comfort and isolation of retreat through layered oil glazes and traditional Flemish techniques. Her drawing captures memory, atmosphere and the blurred boundary between self and landscape.

During Manly Art Gallery & Museum’s (MAG&M) Out Front 2026 Exhibition, an impressive 1,344 votes were cast, sparking community discussion around the exceptional submissions by young artists.

Mia’s $500 prize was generously sponsored by Council’s KALOF youth social media (Keep A Lookout For) as part of Youth Week NSW recognising her outstanding creative achievement.

Mayor Sue Heins said Out Front is testament to the creativity nurtured by dedicated teachers in our schools highlighting our students’ artistic skill.

“It’s wonderful to see our young people expressing themselves so powerfully through art. Mia’s work is a testament to the creativity and depth found in our local schools, and I applaud her on this well-deserved recognition.

“Events like Out Front not only celebrate artistic talent but also bring our community together. The level of artistry this year was truly exceptional, and I am proud of all the students who contributed their HSC works.

Congratulations to Mia and all the finalists – you have inspired us with your vision and skill,” added Mayor Heins.

Now in its 32nd year, Out Front continues to showcase the best of HSC works from Northern Beaches schools, spanning painting, sculpture, video and more. Council looks forward to supporting young artists in future exhibitions and celebrating their achievements.

For further information visit the website.

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