Young Clayfield Artist Honours Nano Nagle’s Legacy in National Contest

A Year 6 student from St Rita’s College Clayfield, Eva M, has created an artwork that reflects the spirit of hospitality and inclusivity, earning her a place in the Nagle Education Alliance of Australia’s (NEAA) 2024 Nagle Prize Competition.



Inspiring Artwork for a National Competition

Eva’s entry for the NEAA competition illustrates the values and traditions upheld by St Rita’s College and is inspired by the life of Nano Nagle, founder of the Presentation Sisters and a figure respected for her dedication to education and community care. Her artwork features a central light symbolising the role of Nano Nagle as the “Lady of the Lantern,” representing warmth, care, and guidance for those in need. The piece also includes open hands to reflect values of hospitality and inclusivity, qualities that her school community strives to model.

To further enhance her message, Eva incorporated traditional First Nations symbols as a tribute to Indigenous Australian culture, emphasising her respect for Australia’s original custodians. This symbolic addition aligns with St Rita’s College’s dedication to reconciliation, making her artwork both culturally relevant and meaningful within the context of Australian heritage.

Eva’s use of imagery highlights the importance of unity and community in fostering a welcoming environment, showing how diverse people and cultures are connected through hospitality. This reflects St Rita’s College’s mission to promote empathy, kindness, and service among its students. The College expressed great pride in Eva’s talent and the dedication she poured into her submission, which they believe truly represents the heart of their school community.

Nano Nagle
Photo Credit: St Rita’s College/Facebook

The NEAA’s Role and Standards

The NEAA, founded in 2013 by a smaller group of Presentation schools, encourages schools across Australia to honour the legacy of Nano Nagle and the Presentation Charism. By offering the Nagle Prize, the NEAA recognises student achievements that reflect the educational and community-focused values Nano Nagle championed in her work. The NEAA is also committed to maintaining Child Safe standards, with strict protocols to ensure all activities support the dignity, safety, and respect of every student involved.



Eva’s artwork proudly represents St Rita’s College, and the community eagerly awaits the competition results, inspired by the young artist’s dedication to the values of inclusivity, reconciliation, and service.

Published 31-Oct-2024