The USU has opened the doors of an exciting new gallery, filled with works from talented student artists. The Verge Gallery, in the Jane Foss Russell Plaza was officially opened on Wednesday 5 August, by Professor Colin Rhodes, Dean of the Sydney College of the Arts Dean, and USU President, Patrick Bateman.The opening night featured a special exhibition, called ‘2039 – The Dean’s List’, in which Professor Rhodes presented a hand-picked selection of student works.
On display was a range of unique and impressive student art, including audio-visual installations, sculptures, photography and other creative expressions. The opening was a successful introduction for the Verge Gallery, which was launched by the USU as a means of fostering links between burgeoning student artists and professional creative industry. The Gallery will feature regular student exhibitions and be open for the university 
community and general public alike to enjoy.
Professor Rhodes congratulated the USU on having the vision to turn the space into a gallery that will be of great benefit to the arts community in and out of the university.
Paul McJannett, CEO of the USU, said the Verge Gallery is a versatile space with many uses. “The Gallery and its associated functions including music and hospitality is available for the entire University community to book for functions, cocktail parties, book launches and other such events,” said Mr. McJannett.
“The Gallery is a great space and after four years of work by many Board Directors, University and Union staff members, it is a worthy replacement for the Sir Herman Black Gallery,” he said.
The Gallery will be utilised during the upcoming Verge Arts Festival, held 
over two weeks in September. The Gallery will be venue of the official launch of the festival on 24 August, and will exhibit pieces from the USU’s annual Photo, Art, Literature and Photography (PALM) Awards competition – an event that produces a large number of impressive, high-quality student artworks. It will also be where Australia’s oldest annual literary journal, Hermes, is launched, on 10 September.