Sophie Maher, a former year 12 student at St Francis de Sales College, is the winner of the 2016 Credit Union SA Community Award for her commanding work “Tension”, at this year’s 2016 SACE Art Show. An intricate portrait composed of twisting more than 3000 metres of coloured thread around 11,369 nails, has been voted the most popular work in the show, from a record 1700 votes by students, teachers, families, and members of the broader community. Sophie also received an Encouragement Award in the SACE Art Show on the opening night of the exhibition.
Using her 10-year-old brother as a model for her work, Sophie’s art piece focuses on the trauma of child abuse; in particular, the way abuse robs children of their innocence. “Reflecting my experiences on a young face allowed me to emphasise the innocence destroyed by abusers on a day-to-day basis,” she said. Portraying the struggle through the subtle bruising and sores located around the mouth and eye, Sophie wanted to ensure her artwork sends a message to abuse victims, regardless of the type of abuse they may suffer. “If people start to talk about abuse and educate one of the largest targets about abuse, then I hope to one day live in a world where telling your story and reaching out for help is not seen as inappropriate”.
Her Art teacher, Talia Hails, is exceptionally proud of her student; in particular her ability to create an intricate work that is so personal and powerful. “Sophie’s creative concept behind such a personal experience and the dedication given to complete such an astounding work in her final year of study, is truly extraordinary”, said Talia, “I am extremely proud of all that she has achieved.”
Winning the award was completely unexpected for Sophie. “I was so surprised, but I am extremely excited to know how much people appreciated my work and I am so proud of myself for accomplishing my piece. I hope to help at least one person through my work by letting them know that anything can be overcome.”
Her work will now hang in Credit Union SA’s corporate office over the next 12 months. Sophie was also on Channel 9’s news on the evening of Tuesday 3rd May, with her outstanding win and work showcased to the wider SA community. Sophie is now studying laboratory medicine at UniSA.
Twenty students from Catholic schools in South Australia have been named among the winners in two major state-wide Humanities competitions.
Earlier this year, senior school students from across South Australia were invited to enter the 2024 Premier’s Anzac Spirit School Prize and the Muriel Matters Awards.
