Week 1 - JOURNEY INTO DARK MATTER
Learn about the fascinating physics of dark matter through art. This mysterious form of matter makes up about 27% of the universe, yet it cannot be directly seen or detected with current instruments. It does not emit, absorb, or reflect light, which is why it’s “dark”. Despite its invisibility, scientists know dark matter exists because of its gravitational effects on visible matter, such as stars, galaxies, and cosmic structures. We will learn about this amazing concept through art by blending drawing techniques with inks, charcoal and luminescent paint. We will also learn about cool collaborations between contemporary artists and nuclear physicists. You can learn about some of these collaborations here & here.

Week 2 - GLASS MICROBIOLOGY - Learning to melt glass!!!!
Did you know that approximately 40 trillion bacteria live in and on the human body?! Outnumbering human cells by about 10 to 1. Most of these bacteria are found in the gut, where they play essential roles in digestion and immune function. Artist Luke Jerram is fascinated by the world of microbes as he creates beautiful sculptures of these invisible creatures, out of glass. You can view his work here. For this workshop we will learn a glass melting technique using a small kiln and our trusty microwave as we create our own versions of glass microbes.  

Week 3 & 4 - MINI MOON GARDEN
Inspired by the stunning miniature gardens of Mugen Woong, we’ll embark on a two-week journey to craft our own miniature landscapes with living plants and tiny architecture. This project fosters patience, creativity and a deep connection to nature, as you build your tiny world from scratch. Mugen Woong’s work reminds us of the importance of cherishing and protecting the natural world. You can watch his beautiful and meditative work here.

Week 5 - MOUNTAINS of COLOUR
This week, we draw inspiration from the stunning miniature landscapes you created and the breathtaking scenery around us, nestled between the majestic Illawarra escarpment and the sea, land sacred to the Wodi Wodi people. In this technical workshop, you'll explore perspective, colour and tone while capturing the natural beauty that surrounds us and talk about your own connection to the land that we live on.  

Week 6 - ONE BIG WILD FAMILY
From the bacteria living in our bodies to the trees producing the air we breathe, all life is interconnected and part of our extended family. Drawing inspiration from contemporary artists who explore humanity’s bond with nature, we will create stunning artworks by weaving plants and natural materials into intricate tapestries. Get ready to create beautiful artworks you will be proud of.

Week 7- ANIMAL VISION
We will learn about an incredible VR installation, imagining how animals see and experience the world. Using amazing technology, this art collective works with a number of scientists to create incredible experiences, giving us a glimpse of different ways “that the same environment can be experienced differently by different organisms, highlighting the diversity of life and perception.” You can learn about the work here. We will explore this theme through drawing, painting, photography and photomontage whilst learning about multiple ways of seeing the world.

Week 8 - 3D CLAY PAINTING
Learn how to shape and paint clay to look like soft, flowing fabric inspired by nature. You’ll squish, roll, and sculpt your way to making amazing clay creations that look like rippling leaves or mimicking the graceful movements of underwater currents. Perfect for young artists who love to get messy and explore their imagination!

Week 9- SCULPTED PAINT PALLETS
This week we will have fun sculpting our own paint pallets from scratch.  Using polymer clay you will sculpt a paint pallet that represents you and your artistic flair.

Week 10- FLEECE PAINTINGS
Today we will create multi sensory paintings using fleece and felt! Inspiration is the painter Paul Emmanuel, who uses sheep’s fleece collected from local farms, as canvas. Paul was inspired by observing sheep in the landscape, colour marked by the farmers, looking like an abstract moving painting from the distance. Using a variety of fleece and felt, you will create an artwork that will be beautiful to look at and so satisfying to touch. You can view Paul’s work here.