TWENTY-year-old Brabham artist Dylan Mullaly has won the ‘people’s choice’ award at the annual Ellenbrook Gallery Youth Exhibition.

His award-winning entry ‘Progress’, is a fascinating mixed-media artwork comprised of post-it notes with tiny paintings of everyday objects, pinned to a cork board.

The overall prize this year went to Tria Son, for ‘Old’, winning a cash prize of $500.

Millie Muller won the under 18 award for her photograph ‘Reflections on Raindrops’, Micah Jaques won the over 18 award for ‘Jemima’, and Jade Shaylor received a special mention for ‘Critically Endangered Western Swamp Tortoise’, as did Kaedish Westburg, for ‘Wardan Noyt – Sea Spirit’, and Eliana Roscoe for ‘Stare’.

The ceremony night coincided with the start of WA Youth Week, and was filled with vibrant energy as young artists showcased their creativity and talent with this year’s official theme being ‘Head, Body, Heart’.

The theme encouraged self-reflection and emphasized holistic well-being, by reminding participants to consider their mental, physical, and emotional health. Additionally, the theme’s focus on extending care to others underscores the importance of empathy and community support.

The opening event drew a crowd of 180 people eager to witness the unveiling of artistic brilliance among the town’s youth.

The event included beautiful performances delivered by Raziq Bertram, piano; Brodie Martin, guitar and the O Te Wa group who performed a Kapa Haka performance.

The Ellenbrook Youth Exhibition is held annually in partnership with Ellenbrook Arts and City of Swan, with prizes sponsored by Swan Hills MLA Jessica Shaw.