A unique exhibition of stunning artworks by at-risk young people will be on display from Monday, 20 November until Friday, 24 November at The Assembly, Deutsche Bank Place (Corner of Hunter and Phillip Streets, Sydney).

The ‘Scratching the Surface’ exhibition marks 10 years of Deutsche Bank’s generous support. The free exhibition showcases over 120 artworks by nine students from Mission Australia Creative Youth Initiatives’ (CYI) class of 2006. A number of past students’ artworks will also be on show.

CYI’s students have faced or are at risk of facing many different challenges in their lives such as homelessness and mental health issues. The program’s creative courses in music, visual arts and photography provide them with opportunities to build self-esteem, improve communication skills, encounter positive learning experiences and gain educational qualifications.

Mission Australia’s Evelyne Tadros said CYI’s Artworks! course is about empowering young people, giving them the opportunity to express themselves through art and to learn new skills.

“For many of our students, art can be a form of therapy. They can communicate their thoughts and feelings through an indirect and non-confronting way,” Mrs Tadros said.

“By showcasing past students’ artworks, people can see the progress these young people have made since completing CYI."

The ‘Scratching the Surface’ exhibition covers a diverse range of artworks – oil, acrylic and water colour paintings and the not so traditional art of spray-paint painting. There are also drawings in pastels, pencil and charcoal as well as extraordinary sculptures.

“All works on display are for sale to the public. It’s a great opportunity for the community to support young people’s creative expression while buying an original piece of art they can enjoy,” she added.

“Scratching the Surface” Exhibition is held from Monday, 20 November 2006 – Friday, 24 November 2006 at The Assembly, Deutsche Bank Place, Cnr Hunter & Phillip Streets, Sydney. Admission is free.

For more information, call (02) 9356 8897