The past few weeks at Wilderness have brought a celebration of the arts.

Our girls have showcased amazing talent and creativity in music, drama and visual art, with exceptional mentorship from our passionate teachers and leading industry partners. We are very proud of our ongoing work cultivating meaningful links to industry which immerse the girls in authentic learning opportunities and enriches their education.

The recent Year 11/12 production of Bombshells was a great success. Australian playwright Joanna Murray- Smith's brilliant exploration of contemporary women's experiences and challenges was shared through the presentation of key moments in the lives of five distinct characters. The monologues were outstanding, bringing to life a young mum balancing the demands of life (Mia), a reserved professional woman navigating heartbreak (Zara), an outgoing performer captivating audiences on stage (Amelie-Rose), and a young bride learning that a wedding and marriage are not the same thing (Jemimah). Additionally, the incredible behind-the-scenes contributions of Ella (sound and lights) and Ava (costume and makeup) brought the entire production to life. Thanks to Jess Foster and her team, industry experts were brought in to share their ideas and expertise and provide professional guidance around set design, installation artwork choreography and more.

Of course, the Generations in Jazz in Mount Gambier at the start of May was also exemplary and hailed as one of the best youth music events in Australia, and the recent annual Jazz at the Gov performance delivered inspiration and energy, the culmination of a rewarding and beneficial musician in residence program with leading musicians Emma Pask and Ross Irwin. Well done to all girls! Congratulations to the Jazz Choir and Jazz Incorporated, first place in Div 1 and Div 2 (the best in the country)! The opportunity to collaborate with outstanding musicians provides unique learning and unparalleled industry insight welcomed by our girls. A big thanks to Anna Lenartowicz and her music staff.

This week has brought Nicole Black, our 2024 Artist in Residence, to campus. An Adelaide-based painter, Nicole’s art revolves around a deep desire to immerse oneself in the natural world. Her student workshops challenge girls to uncover and embrace the unexpected in their work. Students have been investigating the processes involved in Nicole’s art practice, such as considering the visual thinking produced in her many journals and sketch books, which have provided her with inspiration. Students have been involved in practicing some of these processes, including a variety of timed drawing activities and exploration of watercolour techniques reminiscent of Nicole’s style. Thank you to Brooke Porter and everyone in the art department for making this happen.

A holistic education has been a longstanding focus at Wilderness, and the benefits are backed clearly by research. Engaging in arts from an early age not only nurtures individual creativity and self-expression, but also enhances reading and language skills, academic outcomes and wellbeing.

We are incredibly proud to support courageous learning and contribute to a thriving arts scene in South Australia.

Congratulations to everyone involved.