Local young artist Jack Nicholls hopes that he can turn his passion for drawing into a career.

The 17-year-old Year 12 Xavier College student, is currently holding his first public exhibition of his collection of drawings, at the local LEO Gallery located within Tony Piccolo’s Electorate Office.

Jack started drawing from a very young age and began to discover his skill from as early as 5 years old. Though, in Year 8, when he gained access to photos from the internet, he was able to broaden his outlook and rapidly develop his skill.

Jack said he commenced with lead pencil drawings and as he gained confidence and his parents brought him better quality waxed pencils, he started to produce more detailed pieces.

“Better quality pencils enabled me to draw more realistic pictures and add more colour to them.” said Jack.

“I can spend anything from 3 or 4 hours and up to 100 hours on a drawing depending on how intricate and detailed the original work is.

“I like to add vibrant colours to my work where possible.”

Jack hopes to go to university or the Adelaide School of Art to develop his skills to enable him to become a professional artist.

“It would be great if I could make a living from my art, as I love doing it.”

Local member of Parliament, Mr Tony Piccolo said Jack is a very impressive young man who has shown a great deal of self-discipline to develop his drawing skills.

“He is self-taught, which just demonstrates how committed he is to work,” said Mr Piccolo.

“One of his works on exhibition took 100 hours to complete which is a huge effort for a young man of his age.”

“His teachers at Xavier College have certainly nurtured this young talent.”

The exhibition, to be officially launched on Thursday evening by well know aboriginal artist, Scott Rathman, runs until Friday 6th September, and can be viewed by the general public everyday Monday to Friday 9 am till 5pm.

On the evening, the LEO Gallery will also be officially opened by Gawler Mayor, Karen Redman.

The people’s choice winners from two earlier exhibitions will also be announced. Mr Piccolo said the purpose of the LEO Gallery is to give young people in the community an opportunity to exhibit their art works to the general community.

“Often student artworks are not seen beyond the school gate, and the LEO gallery will hopefully change that,” said Mr Piccolo.

“The LEO Gallery is a partnership between his office, the Gawler Community Gallery and participating local Colleges.”