During her first semester Visual Art studies, Year 11 student Zerah Coleman developed and produced an outstanding painting that was selected for inclusion in the 2026 “OUR YOUNG MOB” exhibition at the Adelaide Festival Centre. In addition to this wonderful achievement, we are delighted to report that Zerah’s work was purchased on the opening night of this year’s exhibition.
“OUR YOUNG MOB” provides a platform for young First Nations artists to express their creativity and culture. Part of the broader “OUR MOB” exhibition, it is held in the spirit of reconciliation to demonstrate the power of art in bringing together diverse peoples in harmony with a common goal. Since its inaugural program in 2006, hundreds of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists such as Zerah have exhibited and shared their stories while building and growing their careers.
Zerah’s commitment to her art demonstrates the school values we uphold at PLHS: responsibility in pursuing her creative vision, respect for her Indigenous culture, and inclusivity through sharing her story and talent with the wider community. We congratulate Zerah and her family on this incredible accomplishment and encourage you to read her practitioner’s statement below.
“Vibrant Country” (acrylic on canvas / 55 x 75cm)
My painting represents memories of travelling through Western Australia and spending time with my family in Kalgoorlie. My mother is a proud Gubrun woman from the eastern Goldfields region of Western Australia. My artwork depicts the Super Pit, one of Australia’s largest open pit goldmines. I used vibrant strong colours such as pinks, oranges, purple and yellows to create an abstract pattern, influenced by the strong contours of the cut open earth. Dots and lines capture the texture of the land. I feel a strong connection to the surrounding natural country and want my painting to show the joy of it. My Mother’s family are traditional owners of this land, and I have spent time there with them understanding and exploring the area.
~ Zerah Coleman (Year 11)