Art Box Workshops Student Eddie Zhu Selected as Young Archie Finalist
We are delighted to congratulate Art Box Workshops student Eddie Zhu on being selected as a finalist in the 9–12 years category of the prestigious Young Archie Competition.
Eddie created his portrait during our 8-week Term 4 Portrait Painting Program, where students learn the fundamentals of portrait drawing and painting, including facial proportions, colour mixing, observation skills, and techniques for capturing expression and character. After completing the portrait in class, Eddie felt a strong connection to his artwork and decided to enter it in the Young Archie competition. During the summer holidays, he independently prepared his artist statement and submitted his entry.
Several months later, we received the wonderful news that Eddie had been selected as a finalist. With more than 4,300 entries submitted from young artists across Australia, being chosen as a finalist is an outstanding achievement and a testament to Eddie’s dedication, creativity, and artistic growth. I had the privilege of attending the Young Archie awards ceremony as a guest of Eddie, his mother Sho Soh, and his sister Hillary. It was a proud moment to celebrate his achievement and see his artwork exhibited alongside outstanding young artists from across Australia.
What particularly moved me was Eddie’s artist statement, which demonstrates the depth of thought and self-reflection that art can inspire in young people:
“Wearing my school uniform with pride, I stand as a quiet symbol of growth and resilience. I hope the bold lines and my confident gaze show the person I am becoming—someone grounded in identity and purpose even while my family goes through a separation.”
As an educator, I find that moments like these remind me that art is much more than learning techniques. Art provides young people with a powerful outlet for self-expression, confidence, resilience, and personal growth.
Congratulations, Eddie. We are incredibly proud of your achievement and grateful to have been part of your artistic journey.
— Julia Sawicki
