They have submitted works to the Western Region Alcohol and Drug Centre (WRAD) art in schools competition where they are vying for more than $1000 in prizes.

WRAD improved services co-ordinator Angela Alexander said the competition had uncovered many interesting and thought-provoking pieces of art.

“There is a fantastic range of artwork and very impressive creativity,” Ms Alexander said.

She said the competition had prompted a lot of thought from students about how drugs impact on the community.

“Art teachers have told us that the competition has generated interesting discussions among students about drugs, which is one of the main goals.”

Students in years 9 to 12 from Brauer College, Warrnambool College, Mercy Regional College, Camperdown College, Timboon P-12 School and Mortlake College have submitted entries.

The exhibition opened this week at the ArtLink building in Koroit Street, Warrnambool.

“The students have used a lot of symbolism and developed many interesting ideas in how they see drugs affecting their communities,” Ms Alexander said.

The competition theme was adapted from the Drug Action Week theme of “Drugs, Communities & Families!” that aims to make more Australians aware of potential problems from drug abuse.

Three judges are assessing the entries and the winners will be announced next Friday during Drug Action Week.