As part of their commitment to 2009 National Youth Week events around the country, beyondblue has proudly sponsored a mentoring program for up-and-coming young Western Australian artists.

A diverse group of 23 talented young artists from the state developed unique masterpieces to celebrate Youth Week in the WA.

Propel Youth Arts co-ordinated the National Youth Week young artist mentoring program in partnership with beyondblue and the Western Australian Department of Communities.

The protégés were paired with an experienced artist mentor of their choice.

Together, artist and mentor worked for eight weeks to create an original piece. The mentoring program culminated in an exhibition that launched National Youth Week in Western Australia at Perth Town Hall on Saturday March 28, 2009.

More than 600 people attended the launch, which was a vibrant event to celebrate the diverse and reflective exhibition.

The artworks included photography, sculpture, mixed media, animation, percussion, graphic design, surface design, children’s book writing, illustration, painting, fashion design, filmmaking, performance and installation.

The day was full of interactive activities including the Youth Tree, set on the lawn of the Town Hall, where attendees could contribute an expression of themselves in the form of a leaf on its branches. Other activities included badge making, screen printing, tie-dying and temporary tattoos.

Read more about National Youth Week 2009 at the official website: www.youthweek.com

[Photos by Cat Gomersall]

Den Gladden, Perth

Katilyn Seymour

Saliha Saliha, Perth

Painting by Amy Church, Perth