Guildford Grammar graduate from the Class of 2024, Zoe Darling, has been named among Western Australia’s top emerging artists, with her work Well-read selected for the 2025 Pulse exhibition at the Art Gallery of Western Australia.

Presented annually, Pulse shines a spotlight on the most compelling works by graduating Year 12 Visual Arts students from across the state. This year’s exhibition features just 61 artists from 37 schools – each chosen for their technical skill, creative courage and the ability to help us see the world differently.

Literature as a Lens

Zoe’s artwork Well-read explores the profound influence of storytelling on identity. Through a curated selection of books, she reflects on the stories that shaped her thinking, with each title offering layered meaning and social commentary. The work brings together two major pieces created during Year 12, a painting layered with the covers of her favourite novels over a self-portrait, and a sculptural installation in which those same books appear etched with moments from her final year, suspended on clear acrylic poles.

“The artwork reflects how literature shapes perceptions, with each book depicted carrying a commentary that deeply influenced me,” Zoe told The West Australian.

Creative Growth and Breakthrough Moments

Visual Arts teacher Ms Grace McKell, who taught Zoe in her final two years at Guildford Grammar, said Zoe always demonstrated strong artistic talent and a deep commitment to her work. “Even her past teachers commented on how talented she was from Year 7,” she said.

Early in the process, Zoe considered developing a metaphorical piece inspired by one of her favourite classic novels. But both student and teacher quickly realised that the idea relied on viewers having prior knowledge of the text. “We both knew that her biggest goal was to get an artwork into Pulse, and we talked about what set those artworks apart. It came down to having a clear message that could be understood by a diverse audience – no matter their age, background or gender,” said Ms McKell.

That conversation led Zoe back to the drawing board. After visiting the Rone exhibition at AGWA, she began experimenting with visual layouts that would elevate the books themselves as the storytelling centrepiece. One of those sketches – the now-recognisable floating display on acrylic poles – became the foundation for Well-read. With support from Guildford Grammar’s Design & Technology department, Zoe sourced materials and spent long hours in the art room after school, carefully crafting the final piece in the lead-up to her ATAR practical exam.

Mentorship and Creative Confidence

For Ms McKell, Zoe’s selection was a moment of immense pride. “I was ecstatic when I received confirmation that Zoe’s artwork had been selected for the exhibition,” she said. “Seeing her piece in the Art Gallery of WA, professionally displayed and lit – the first piece you see as you walk into the left room of the gallery space – filled me with immense pride and joy.”

She reflected on the role mentorship plays in helping young artists refine their voice. “I allow students complete creative freedom in creating their artworks,” she explained. “I assign them a loose theme or topic, and the students decide what they make and what materials they use, allowing them to find their unique artistic style and voice.”

At the heart of this process is encouraging students to think about the impact of their work. “I always bring it back to the audience – encouraging students to consider those who will see their work, and how they want the viewer to think or feel when engaging with it.”

Going Forward with Purpose

Zoe’s inclusion in Pulse represents a significant milestone – but it also marks the beginning of a creative path built on reflection, originality and a willingness to evolve. Her ability to blend intellect, emotion and narrative into a powerful artistic voice exemplifies the kind of thoughtful, purpose-driven graduate that Guildford Grammar seeks to develop.

We are proud to celebrate Zoe’s achievement and look forward to seeing where her creative journey leads next, as she continues to Go Forward with confidence and imagination.