For many emerging artists, the first time seeing their work displayed in a professional gallery is a moment they’ll never forget.

This August, that opportunity belongs to a group of talented Wakatipu High School students whose Excellence-endorsed NCEA art portfolios will be showcased at the Lakes District Museum and Gallery in Arrowtown as part of the annual “Showing Off” exhibition.

Opening on 6 August and running for one month, the exhibition celebrates outstanding Level 1 and Level 2 artworks completed during the 2025 academic year. It also gives the wider community a chance to experience the creativity, skill and diverse perspectives of the district’s young artists.

Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring the exhibition, with five People’s Choice Awards up for grabs across five different artistic disciplines. Friends, family and the wider community are invited to vote for their favourite works and help recognise the achievements of these emerging creatives.

The exhibition has become a much-loved annual tradition thanks to the ongoing support of the Lakes District Museum and Gallery and the generous sponsorship of Trinity Construction.

Museum representative Jane Peasey, together with Jo Wright and Wayne Foley from Trinity Construction, have proudly supported the exhibition for many years. Each year, the museum curates the exhibition, transforming student portfolios into a professional gallery experience that attracts hundreds of visitors.

For Wakatipu High School’s art department, the exhibition represents far more than displaying finished work.

It’s an opportunity for students to experience what it feels like to exhibit in a professional public space, often for the very first time. Seeing their work carefully curated and viewed by the community provides encouragement, confidence and a glimpse into what a future in the arts could look like.

Behind every piece on display is the guidance of dedicated art teachers who work closely alongside students throughout the year, helping them develop both their technical skills and creative voices.

The result is an exhibition filled with an impressive variety of media, themes and ideas, reflecting not only the talent of the students but also the diversity of creative practice emerging from across the Whakatipu Basin.

As the exhibition continues to return year after year, it remains an important milestone for young artists, offering a professional platform to celebrate their achievements while inspiring the next generation to pursue their own creative journeys.

If you’re looking for a chance to support local young talent, head along to the Lakes District Museum and Gallery this August, cast your vote in the People’s Choice Awards, and discover the incredible creativity being nurtured in our local schools.


Cover image credit: Milla Leemborg  - Level 1 photo design