The catalogue says this exhibition 'showcases the work of recent art school graduates' from Western Australia's three Universities and two TAFE campuses. With the exception of one University I would suggest, in the current economic situation, the other institutions would benefit from channelling their 'art' funding into some other discipline.

Of the 2D exhibits found in both commercial venues, Kathryn Haug's works stand out beautifully as they sing the praises of her command of medium and mark making. Haug celebrates colour, texture and the act of painting itself with brush marks that boldly dance across the surface to create an image. Haug clearly demonstrates her ability in drawing and painting with confidence and exuberance.

The 3D works, sculpture and jewellery, offer the most enjoyable aspect of the exhibition. Perth Galleries host three well constructed and presented sculptures by Pat Madigan. Made from wooden clothes pegs (the clip kind minus the little metal springs) these abstract forms attract and delight the viewer, not only for their intricate shapes but for the character of their construction. I do appreciate lateral thinking!  And both venues present the excellent bronzes by Ayad Alqaragholli. Like 3D line drawings, these works own a sense of delicacy and durability reminiscence of Giacometti all the while demonstrating the maker's own mind. This fact is enhanced when we compare Alqaragholli's work to those of Graham Heritage. Although Heritage's works cannot be faulted, I would have appreciated them more if his exhibits could be separated, in media, style and composition, from past examples of his instructor's work. Art students must be encouraged to learn from, not emulate, the work of their teachers.

Much appreciated are the unusual works by Natalie Williamson. Employing wax, foam, beads and pins this artist constructs intriguing works that seem to both invite and repel the viewer. The artist creates a collection of sill life subjects such as hands, fruit and spheres that suggest ideas of life & death, pain & pleasure. Each original exhibit has been meticulously composed and presented so as to engage the viewer. Good stuff.

The finest works in the exhibition are found in the Jewellery category. Silver, copper, plastic, synthetic stones, quartz, onyx, pearls, agate and cubic zirconia are creatively and skilfully employed to offer charming examples of rings, brooches, pins, ear rings, and pendants. Lauren Frame's pendants and brooches can't be faulted, Kim Wong creates delightful, whimsical jewellery for the adventurous, Lusanne Yi offers sophisticated pieces that are strong yet delicate, while Justin Linney presents bold and beautiful, geometric works. Each piece a sculptural wonder in miniature.

Good luck to all participants, albeit most have sufficient talent that will see them flourish through their creative efforts.