Portland Primary students featured in Iziko Museum's Bushstrokes

Three pupils from Portland Primary School are celebrating an achievement many artists only dream of: having their artwork published in a professionally produced book.

The book, titled Bushstrokes, was released by the Iziko Museum and features the creative work of Sydney Tobin, Skylar Valentine, and Yusuf Suleman at just 11 years old.

Grade 5 pupil, Sydney Tobin, said seeing her artwork in print was a moment she will never forget.

“I was very excited that my paint work was included in the book,” she said. She described her piece, which depicts water pouring from a mouth. “It wasn’t difficult to draw because of the teachings and skills our teacher shared with us. The inspiration comes from my deep-rooted passion for drawing.”

Sydney said she is the first in her family to have their artwork featured in a book, a milestone that has filled her home with pride.“Everyone was very excited,” she said. “I didn’t know how to feel at first because it came as a shock to me, but I was happy that my hard work had been recognised. This will be there for years to come.”

Art, she said, has always been a source of joy.“I love to draw - it's something that excites me. Our teacher makes it easy to learn the skills and techniques. I feel like I’ve made my family proud, and this is one of my biggest achievements so far.”

Grade 4 pupils, Skylar Valentine and Yusuf Suleman, also shared in the honour of having their artwork selected. 

Portland Primary’s arts teacher, Mark Jeneker, said the achievement is not only a personal triumph for the pupils but a proud moment for the entire school.“I am incredibly proud of these three young artists,” he said. “They put genuine heart and effort into their work, and seeing their talent recognised on such a public platform is deeply rewarding. Sydney, Skylar and Yusuf are wonderfully creative, and this publication shows them that their voices and visions matter.”

He added that the programme is designed to help pupils express themselves confidently.“Our goal is always to make art accessible and enjoyable. When children believe in their creativity, they start believing in themselves. This recognition from the Iziko Museum is a powerful reminder of what young minds can achieve when given the right support.”

The recognition has not only boosted the confidence of the three young artists but has also inspired their classmates and the school community.

Teachers and parents said they were immensely proud of the pupils' creativity and dedication.