The 400 best inventions, designs, performances, writings and artworks of 2020 HSC students are on display across five exhibitions for the public to enjoy.

Education Minister Sarah Mitchell today met students who have works in the SHAPE, Encore, OnSTAGE and ARTEXPRESS exhibitions at the Powerhouse Museum, where 42 HSC technology projects are going on display this Saturday.

Ms Mitchell said the showcases this year were unique because they reflected the unprecedented challenges and disruptions that 2020 HSC students faced, from bushfires, floods and drought, to COVID-19 and personal experiences.

“Those experiences are reflected by students in their creative and design work – whether that be a quilt depicting arid drought landscapes, or a portable oxygen device particularly poignant in the context of COVID-19, or an innovative new design to assist blind and visually impaired community members,” she said.

“These works are incredible - some already have patents taken out - and I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to head to an exhibition to experience the works.

“The works on display across these exhibitions are mature, thoughtful and highlight the tremendous capacity for critical thinking, innovation and creativity in NSW schools. Congratulations to the 400 students exhibited.”

Powerhouse Museum chief executive Lisa Havilah said it was exciting to see the innovation and creative thinking shown in the work of technology students.

“Shape 2020 sees students responding to contemporary issues that we all face, creating work that is focused on improving our everyday lives. We are proud to partner with NESA to showcase the talent of this next generation of designers,” Ms Havilah said.

ARTEXPRESS is now showing at metro and regional galleries in NSW and features the work of more than 270 visual arts students across the state.

The exhibitions are also in regional areas, with ARTEXPRESS holding regional showings.

OnSTAGE, CALLBACK and ENCORE will be available online this year, giving all schools across the State access to the depth and breadth of talent from 66 students in HSC Drama, Dance and Music, respectively.

Visit the NESA website to find out more about the 2020 HSC Showcase Program.