Local Artist takes first prize – by David Hudleston, Examiner, October 26th, 2023

Talented young artist Feteema Aljabiri has been recognised in the Young Australian Art Awards, winning first prize in the Senior Computer Art category for her work “Knock Knock”.

Judges were impressed with the digitally-created artwork which depicts well-presented young men, armed with a baseball bat, knocking on a security camera.

Feteema created the work to challenge stereotypes.

“People frequently categorise different ethnicities or socioeconomic statuses as good or bad, and often generalise about others based on how they appear or dress” she said.

“In my artwork, I question stereotypes of criminals by showing individuals knocking on a security camera, with frowning faces, holding a weapon while elegantly dressed in suits.”

For Feteema, art is a way to communicate complex messages. “Art speaks louder than words” she said. “There are many complex issues and ideas that are difficult to express no matter what words you use or how long you talk. Art can convey these issues and ideas clearly to an audience.”

The Year 11 student completed the work as part of her Digital Design course at Southern River College. She credits her teacher Mrs Webber for her success.

“Mrs Webber is an amazing teacher. She always strives for me to push past my limits and reach higher and I couldn’t be more grateful.” she said.

Feteema has previously had artworks selected for display in the Shaun Tan and Young Originals exhibitions.

Despite these accomplishments she was surprised to find she had won this award.

“It honestly still feels unreal, it’s hard to process that I was able to win such an award and I’m so grateful.” she said.

“I feel like my hard work has been recognised and it makes me so happy.”

For her efforts, Feteema has won an all-expenses trip to Melbourne for her and a family member to attend the awards ceremony in November.

Graphic design teacher Jasmine Webber is thrilled. “It’s a tremendous achievement as a teacher to observe a talented student find her voice and unique style as a young graphic designer.” she said.

“I am incredibly proud knowing feteema has won the top national student in her category and was beaming when I was informed of the win.”

“Feteema not only has digital skills well beyond her years, she deeply understands the core fundamentals of design and has natural artistic ability.”

College principal Heath Dullard said he is also delighted at Feteema’s success. “It’s a fantastic achievement for Feteema to win a Young Australian Art Award.” he said.

“We are very proud of her achievement and excited for her to be going to Melbourne.”

“It shows the opportunities provided at Southern River College and the excellent teachers we have working with our students.”