ArtExpress, the annual display of visual art creations by last year’s HSC students, begins its statewide tour in Sutherland Shire on Saturday at Hazelhurst Regional Gallery.

It is an initiative of the Education Department and the NSW Board of Studies and a total of 267 students are represented.

The Gymea exhibition will feature 54 artworks — 11 by St George and Sutherland Shire students, each reflecting their interests and concerns.

It was a love of childhood memories that inspired Woolooware High School graduate, Kristin Nell.

She took photos of her friend blowing bubbles, and turned them into charcoal drawings.

Nerida Moren, a nursing student who attended Kirrawee High School, created an emotionally expressive painting that represented anxiety.

Other standout pieces include Blake Malone, also of Kirrawee High School.

He explored German expressionism; and a sketch by St Ursula’s College graduate Anika Lukins was inspired by sleep and distress.

Representatives from regional galleries bid for which artworks they would like to display.

Hazelhurst’s education co-ordinator, Kate Milner, was enthusiastic about ArtExpress.

‘‘It’s incredibly popular, and the biggest for school tours coming through,’’ Ms Milner said. ‘‘The cut-off point for selection is of a high standard so it’s the best of the best.

‘‘The Art Gallery of NSW gets first choice. We like to have a good local component of students. It’s not just a crowd pleaser: it also gives support to the next HSC art students.’’

She said each piece had its own individual flair.

‘‘I don’t do themes, but rather find many strong works that show breadth of technique and diversity,’’ she said.

‘‘Faces are always a strong component and our biggest representation is expressive form in painting.

‘‘The students all have the potential to be great artists.’’

The exhibition ends March 18.

The gallery will also host forums for this year’s HSC visual arts students.

There is an evening session on February 15, from 6.30pm, and daytime sessions on February 21 at 10am and 12.30pm.

Details: 8536 5731 and 8536 5745.