More than 1000 works were on display over the weekend at the school’s annual art show, all based around the idea of ‘Food for Thought’.

In a departure from previous art shows at the school, the four-day event also saw students turn professional, with visitors able to purchase the work.

Also for the first time, the show also included a gallery opening for the school community last Friday night.

Organiser and teacher Christine Trull said the art show was expanded this year to give a more immersive experience for students.

“We wanted the kids to have the opportunity to have a genuine professional experience of having a gallery opening,” she said.

“We really wanted to educate them about what to expect in the art world, but also have something for them to feel special about and be gratified about the work they’ve created.”

As part of the gallery opening, Archibald prize-nominated artist Luke Cornish spoke to many of the students in a question and answer session.

Year 6 student Jordan Valter, who was one of the students interviewing Mr Cornish, said he provided a lot of artistic inspiration.

“He was answering a lot of questions about his work and how art has impacted on his life,” he said.

Each student from Macgregor Primary School created two art works for the show, ranging from paintings to collages, sketches and photography.

Fellow year 6 student Charlotte Jackson said she used a fabric and applique for her work.

“I was able to create some fruit out of it,” she said,

“I managed to get it done  in about two weeks. It’s definitely one of my favourite subjects.”

However, it wasn’t just the students who got the chance to create art work for the show.

Visitors were encouraged to bring along non-perishable foods, which people could then turn them into sculptures.

The food will be donated to the organisation Communities@Work.

“We wanted for people attending to take part and be engaged with the art works so that they became part of the exhibition and the installation,” Ms Trull said.

“Mostly people made castles out of it.”

Ms Trull said judging by the success of the new events as part of the art show, they will return again next year.

“It’s important for the community to see that we’re showcasing art in public education right alongside literacy and numeracy,” she said.