Fairfield Advance (Australia)
February 20, 2008
1 – Edition

Traveller’s memories of war

AN overseas trip marred by war is the focus of Natalie Kokozian’s
photo montage, part of myriad artworks taking centre stage at the
Fairfield City Museum and Gallery.

Unexpected Pathways showcases the works of 2007 HSC art students.

Natalie, 17, and her peers from Bonnyrigg’s Sevan Armenian Dance
Group were stranded in Lebanon when Israel bombed the country two
years ago.

Her submission includes a rubble-stained dance costume while the
suitcase’s interior is lined with newspaper articles covering the
July 2006 conflict.

Fond memories of her travel experience are also depicted with happy
snaps, maps and plane tickets used for the six-week trip to Syria,
Armenia and Lebanon, where they were safe despite being stuck in the
war-ravaged country.

Natalie, a St Johns Park resident with Armenian ancestry, returned
home with some happy memories.

“It was the first time I went into Armenia and . . . because I was
born in Australia, it was a major cultural boost for me,” she said.

Natalie’s work will be on display alongside 25 other local young
artists’ submissions.

Former Prairiewood High School student Rosanette Dy’s collection of
paintings, called Skittle City, explores landscapes.

“The images of seeing the city inspired me to create my artwork
because I have an interest in landscapes,” she said.

“I’m interested in seeing landscapes because it makes me feel like
there is freedom.”

Schools involved in the display include Fairfield, St Johns, Fairvale
and Prairiewood high schools.

Fairfield mayor Nick Lalich said viewing the exhibition was a chance
to acknowledge young artists’ talents.

“Young sports men and women are often recognised for their talents
but artists are not,” he said.

Unexpected Pathways is on show at the museum, corner of The Horsley
Drive and Oxford St, Smithfield, until March 30.