Finding momentum through creativity: Clementine Nash’s journey to creativity in Melbourne

Coming straight from high school in Ballarat — around 100 kilometres from Melbourne — Clementine Nash arrived at LCI Melbourne with a strong creative drive and a clear sense of what she loved. Now studying the Bachelor of Design Arts, with a focus on filmmaking and photography, Clementine is shaping a practice that brings together movement, image‑making, and personal expression, supported by a close‑knit learning environment and early recognition of her talent.

That recognition came through the NextGen exhibition at the Art Gallery of Ballarat, where Clementine’s work was not only selected but also awarded the Award for Innovation, earning her the Next Gen Scholarship and supporting her transition from regional Victoria into tertiary creative study. For Clementine, the acknowledgement offered more than financial support; it reinforced her confidence at a pivotal moment to continue her creative practice beyond secondary school.

A confident step from high school to university

“Coming straight out of high school, it was very motivating to know that my work had already been recognised,” Clementine says. “Especially by LCI Melbourne, it really helped my confidence coming into tertiary study, and it made the transition from high school feel very smooth.”

Awarded through the Art Gallery of Ballarat’s NextGen program, the scholarship supports students who participate in the exhibition. For Clementine, winning the Award for Innovation validated her creative direction at an early stage of her journey.

Choosing a creative community

Clementine says she was drawn to LCI Melbourne after hearing positive feedback about the learning environment — particularly the small class sizes and personalised approach.

“I heard that the classes are quite small and intimate, so you get more time with your tutors,” she explains. “I really liked that they care about our futures as creative individuals.”

As she continued researching, the broader creative culture stood out just as strongly.

“I realised it’s such a creative school. You’re surrounded by people who value what you value, and that’s really motivating — especially when you’re continuing your own creative projects.”

Growing confidence through mentorship

Since starting the Bachelor of Design Arts, Clementine says the support from mentors has played a major role in her creative development, particularly in refining her ideas and future direction within filmmaking and photography.

“The mentors are really passionate about helping me develop my creative concepts for my future career in the art world,” she says. “They’re very eager to help — even outside the classroom — to get your work to be the best it can be.”

This balance of conceptual thinking and hands‑on guidance has helped Clementine build confidence not just in her technical skills, but in her creative voice.

Exploring movement through image‑making

Clementine’s NextGen‑selected, award‑winning artwork, Green Room, reflects the intersection of her interests in dance and visual storytelling. The series consists of nine photographs of Clementine performing classical ballet, capturing movement, discipline, and stillness through the camera lens.

“I wanted to create an artwork that captured both my interests — dance and photography,” she says. “It felt like a really natural way to bring those two creative worlds together.”

Advice for future students

For those considering LCI Melbourne, Clementine encourages prospective students to experience the campus firsthand.

“Definitely come for a tour. The facilities are awesome,” she says. “You’ll meet so many creative, like‑minded people, and it’s a great place to start building your network.”

From regional Victoria to Melbourne’s creative hub, Clementine’s journey highlights the impact of early recognition, strong mentorship, and a Bachelor of Design Arts pathway that allows emerging creatives to shape their own focus and future.

LCI Melbourne is a principal partner of the Art Gallery of Ballarat and the NextGen Exhibition.

Explore your future alongside Clementine in an LCI Melbourne course.

Image Credit: Astrid Mulder Photography