I always look forward to this exhibition as it renews my faith in both young people and art. This, the 16th presentation of Young Originals, features 61 works selected from more then 200 students representing 37 public secondary schools across WA. This year's efforts reveal some lateral thinking, good craftsmanship and lots of enthusiasm on the part of the participants. Exhibits include painting, textiles, sculpture, mixed media and digital prints so there's something for everyone. Not every exhibit is 'perfect' but each one is worthy of inclusion in the show.

On entry you are hit by Gareth Mackay's (South Fremantle Senior High School) powerful painting Fragmented Illusion. This large work consists of disjointed black and white squares hosting grey images of chains, springs, pieces of metal and what could be open wounds. The splashes of blood red throughout suggests to me that the work was inspired by a motorcycle accident.

More peaceful yet equally engaging is Sophia Dunning's (Shenton College) Bedrock Beliefs. Here is an example of good sculpture in the round as it provides interest from every point of view. From one angle it suggests a figure kneeling in prayer while from another viewpoint is appears to be an ancient iconic shape of unknown origin. The piece is well worked and gives a flowing, organic sense to the material.

New technology opens all sorts of artistic doors for creative students. Nicole Stagall (Shenton College) presents an excellently composed and manipulated photographic print, Melancholy and Lisa Morellini (Melville Senior High School) captures movement and energy, day and night in her digital print Bus Side Advert, 24 HR Fremantle. Then, to pay homage to 'old fashion' photography, Emma Morreson (Forrestfield Senior High School) captures a sense of speed and effort in her picture of a swimmer, arms arched in mid Butterfly Stroke, pulling through the water in the excellent image Flying. These three students understand how to get beyond just the subject of a picture and capture the essence of a mood.

Of the paintings, many bold efforts are presented however it is a small self-portrait on a plank that calls from across the room. Kendal Gear's (Kalamunda Senior High School) painting owns a sense of strength and vulnerability. The expression on the face that emerges from the darkness may be read according to the viewer's interpretation not the artist's dictate. This invites us into her world and we are intrigued.

While considering the funky frocks, Annirose Wheildon (Mandurah Senior College) is the only one that presents something practical. Her two-piece patchwork Summer Self is well conceived, constructed, captures the sense of the beach season, and is wearable.

This is an interesting and enjoyable exhibition so have a look and don't forget to examine the exhibits on the mezzanine too.