Now What: 2016 QUT Visual Arts Graduate Exhibition

This is a catalogue showcasing the Bachelor of Arts (Visual Arts) Graduating Student's Exhibition works. The opening of the remarkable new stage of the Creative Industries Precinct has provided an excellent opportunity to take stock of what Visual Arts at QUT has achieved since its inception out of the Brisbane College of Advanced Education at the end of the 1980s. The brave decision over twenty years ago to transition to its distinctive open studio structure, where students work in all modes of visual practice side by side, has proven to be a prescient one. This approach responded to the emerging characteristics of contemporary art, in particular its diversity and self-awareness, while steadfastly holding on to a methodical study of modern and contemporary art history and theory - taking a uniquely integrated approach throughout its courses. As artists' practices have become increasingly interdisciplinary, melding traditional visual art approaches with strategies drawn from other art forms, crafts, design, the sciences, digital technology, as well as humanities disciplinecs such as sociology, ethnography, and archaeology, this integrated approach has been able to respond and adapt. Research into the future of work in a digital world suggests that creativity and human communication will be two of the hardest skills to automate. A rigorous art education provides graduates with these skills as well as strategies for ingenuity, resilience, visual literacy, adaptability, discernment, and a sense of historical and social context- all vital characteristics for success in the twenty-first century. We have observed over time how QUT graduates have proven themselves as successful practicing artists, curators, entrepreneurs and educators. The graduating students of 2016 show every indication that they will follow equally diverse and exciting pathways. All graduates ask, 'Now What?' We know that this question has been at the heart of their studies. They have been asked to consider and reflect on their development in an uncompromising educational environment specifically designed to prepare them for the world of professional practice; they have poured their energy and resources into their work, been encouraged and sometimes driven by their lecturers and tutors, and they have built valuable professional networks and precious friendships. We look forward to seeing how these talented graduates shape their cultural landscape as they forge careers in their own distinctive ways and wish them every success. Dr Courtney Pedersen Head of Discipline, Visual Arts