This year's ARTEXPRESS exhibition marks a shift in focus. It is the first year that we see the results of the new HSC Visual Arts Syllabus. Consequently the Gallery's exhibition takes as its premise the body of work, looking in depth at the practice and achievements of a smaller group of students. The selection includes a range of approaches, styles and media, including collection of works, digital animation, drawing, painting, photography, printmaking and video. Particular attention was given to artworks which demonstrated a high degree of material and conceptual resolution and responded honestly to challenges set, in terms of the students' own thinking, making and being in the world.

As in previous years the Gallery's selection investigates the work of young adults. Identity is a strong thread throughout and is reflected in themes such as self-imaging, intimacy, family, explorations of inner and outer worlds, as well as representations of broader social and cultural issues. In different ways the artworks included are marked variously by ambiguity, seriousness or humour with all demonstrating a willingness to explore.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is the principal venue for ARTEXPRESS. This annual exhibition is an important part of the Gallery's ongoing commitment to art education and our large school audience. The Gallery, as part of its vision statement, lists the goal of presenting to the public the finest works of art and as an objective the inspiration and exploration of artistic attitude and aspiration. ARTEXPRESS is firmly situated within this vision.

- Bronwyn Clark-Coolee, Public Programmes Department