Talent and creativity will be on display in abundance at this year’s Express Yourself exhibition which showcases the work of more than 40 HSC Visual Art students from local secondary schools.

The exhibition kicks off at the Manly Art Gallery & Museum on Friday 23 February from 6 - 8pm and will be opened by prominent Australian artist Joshua Yeldham. It runs until Sunday 1 April.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan praised the ongoing outstanding quality of the artworks on show in Express Yourself which this year range from multi-media and digital pieces to sculpture, graphics and drawing.

“It’s wonderful to see the diversity of local talent on display at a local institution like MAG&M which continues to nurture and inspire new generations of creatives.

“Express Yourself reflects the artistic strength of emerging young artists on the Northern Beaches as well as the quality of our schools,” Mayor Regan said.

The winners of the $3,000 Manly Art Gallery & Museum Society Youth Art Award and $5,000 Theo Batten Bequest Youth Art Award will be announced on opening night. These two awards are granted annually to students featured in the exhibition.

Statements will be displayed alongside the artworks describing the inspirations and influences that informed the works and the students’ creative journeys. Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favourite artwork in the People’s Choice award.

Exhibition dates: Friday 23 February - Sunday 1 April
Teachers' preview: Friday 23 February, 5 - 6pm
Official opening: Friday 23 February, 6 - 8pm
Art Walk and Talk: Saturday 3 March, 2 - 3pm: Artists walk through the exhibition and discuss their works with the curators and audience (no bookings required)