Talented young artists from across Western Australia are showcasing visual and performing arts pieces to mark the start of National Youth Week, launched today by Youth Minister Donna Faragher.

Mrs Faragher said National Youth Week’s ‘Make a Move’ theme was aimed at inspiring young people to get moving and make a change in their world.

“Propel Youth Arts WA, with funding from the State Government and other sponsors, has made that happen by linking up 23 young artists with artist mentors to produce an exhibition now on display at the Perth Town Hall, which I hope will stimulate debate,” she said.

“Nearly a third of the young artists involved are from regional areas including Tom Price, Broome, Esperance, Bunbury and Northam.”

National Youth Week embodied the Department for Communities’ Office for Youth’s vision of promoting strong, vibrant communities where all young people felt they belonged and mattered.

Grants of up to $900 were provided to 79 community organisations and local government authorities to assist in the development and implementation of events and activities for the week.

“This is a clear indication that WA’s young people are enthusiastically getting involved in events, activities and workshops, and I look forward to seeing more of what they have to offer during the week,” the Minister said.

The exhibition at the Perth Town Hall, in Hay Street, is open to the public until Sunday, April 5.

One of the highlights of National Youth Week is the WA Youth Awards on Thursday, April 2. The awards feature 30 finalists in six categories including Inspiration, Environment, Citizenship, Active Achievement and Leadership.  An overall winner would be announced as the 2009 WA Young Person of the Year.