THE annual MacKillop Art Exhibition was launched at Sacred Heart Cathedral Bendigo on Friday, November 12.

The exhibition showcased student artworks from across the Sandhurst Diocese and featured paintings, photographs, sculpture, media and prints.

Major awards are announced at the exhibition launch each year, including the MacKillop Art Prize, the Spiritual Art Award and the Primary Art Award, as well as awards for Highly Commended entries in various age sections.

There was great excitement for St John's Euroa as Asha Embling was announced as the winner of the Primary Art Award (Prep – Yr6) by the judges for her sculpture titled, 'The Steampunk Cat'.

The sculptural art piece made from corks, cogs and other materials proved popular with both the judges and the public, also being named as a finalist in the People's Choice Awards.

Find out how to vote for Asha's art work below.

Ivy Burden was also recognised by the judges with a Highly Commended Award in the Spiritual Art section for her painting titled, 'The Stained Glass Cross.'

Congratulations to Asha, Ivy and all the St John's students who were selected to exhibit pieces in the MacKillop Art Exhibition.

The exhibition is open for public viewing until Sunday, November 28 at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Bendigo.

The exhibition can also be viewed online at the Catholic Education Sandhurst website at www.ceosand.catholic.edu.au where you can cast your vote in the People's Choice awards, or in person at the Cathedral, for both Primary and Secondary winners.