International wine labels by Dubbo Art student
27-May-08
Local Aboriginal Art student, Robert Ryan, has created an artwork that will feature on wine labels designed specifically for the international export market.
A number of students from the Dubbo TAFE College Arts and Media Department recently worked to produce the labels after a representative from the Bell River Estate Winery was impressed by their talent on display at an exhibition of the students' work. 
Their teacher, Teresa Yasserie, said her Aboriginal Art students were thrilled at the opportunity to feature on a wine label designed specifically for the Asian market.
"After I was approached by Mick Banks from the Bell River Estate Winery, the students were asked to produce an artwork that featured a kangaroo in ochre," Ms Yasserie said.
"The students studying Aboriginal or Torres Islander Cultural Arts at the Arts and Media Department in Dubbo regularly use ochre to create images that relate to local traditional Aboriginal cultural practices.
"I am proud of the work they did for this project and congratulate Robert for having his artwork selected.
"This is a great opportunity for Robert as it is not only a recognition of his talent, but a great way to gain industry exposure," she said.
A range of exciting exhibition and industry opportunities have resulted from this local program. The program provides students with as much industry exposure as possible so that their talent and hard work recognised.
"Exhibitions and industry opportunities are part of an ongoing teaching strategy within the Arts and Media Department of the Institute," Ms Yasserie said.
"The exposure provided by regular TAFE exhibitions is invaluable for students who promote their work generating sales as well as forming commercial relationships such as we've achieved with the Bell River Estate Winery.
"It fits in with the TAFE NSW - Western Institute's priorities to provide industry relevant training that can lead to good commercial and vocational outcomes and I'm pleased that we've been able to assist local Aboriginal students to be recognised for their culture and talent."
Previous initiatives have included a display of student artwork at the Western Plains Cultural Centre in Dubbo which is an industry partner of the Arts and Media Department. The students have also participated in an exhibition at the highly regarded Boomalli contemporary art space in Sydney which was profiled in the national art magazine Australian Art Review.
"The Dubbo Arts and Media Department is looking forward to another exciting year of industry engagement and regular exhibitions for its accomplished students," Ms Yasserie said.
Media Enquiries: Hugh Haynes, 6393 5930
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