Students go incognito at national art show

Floristry students are taking part in the show as part of their course work this semester. Through their studies, students will explore the use of colour and develop drawing skills to communicate their ideas. Their Incognito artworks contribute to their learning, with pieces created in class using a range of materials such as paint, ink, charcoal, oil pastels and coloured pencils.

The finished works will be exhibited and sold as part of the national show in Sydney, Brisbane, Townsville and online, with profits going toward artists living with disability.

Floristry teacher Natalie Raffaele, who was awarded Gold at the 2026 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show said the experience gives students valuable, real-world experience.

This is such a fun and worthwhile project for students to be involved in. They get to explore their creativity, find their artistic voice and see their work shared beyond the classroom.

- Floristry teacher Natalie Raffaele

Floristry student Emma Wheatland began her Certificate III in Floristry earlier this year and has already taken part in another major event, the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.

“I chose floristry because I needed a creative outlet that I could turn into a career, and I’ve completely fallen in love with it,” Emma said.

“Returning to study was a little daunting, but choosing The Gordon was easy because it’s close to home and I can balance family life with study. Now that I’m studying and I’m thinking about my future goals, I can see so many positive opportunities ahead. It’s absolutely worth it.” 

Emma said participating in industry events, and now the Incognito Art Show has had the biggest impact.

It’s really stretched my current skills. It’s given me a glimpse into a whole range of career pathways in this industry I hadn’t considered. 

- Emma Wheatland, floristry student

When asked what’s the key skills needed for a career in floristry, Emma replied: “people skills. Its underrated but essential. I feel this is a defining trait for a lot of the florists that I look up to and see succeed. Creativity matters, but so does being able to communicate your ideas to clients and co-workers”.