Gallery's art program inspires young talent

Three years since the Ladd family first attended Noosa Regional Gallery’s Family Day workshops mum Rachael says the program still inspires.

Her children Harry and Lexie have grown up as regular faces around the craft tables. In the past two months they’ve made Christmas gifts, steampunk hats and felt creations.

The Ladds are one of many families that regularly take part in Family Day, which the Gallery hosts for free on the second Sunday of every month on the shores of Noosa River.

Gallery Director Nina Shadforth said: “Family Day is a popular event and we’re thrilled with the growing interest in art among both children and their parents. It’s also great to see our regulars grow up over the years they have been attending and they look forward to seeing the volunteers, some of whom have been involved in the program for more than eight years.”

Also growing in popularity are the Gallery’s after-school art classes for primary aged children. They’re held on Thursday afternoons during school terms.

In the school holidays, the Gallery works with artists to develop art workshops for young people. Secondary school students are also invited to register their interest in the Gallery’s NRG Art Club that is specifically designed for teenagers interested in developing their knowledge and skills in the production and understanding of art. Contact the Gallery for more information.

“Family Day entry and materials are free. Each participant receives an icy pole during summer and children of all ages are welcome,” Ms Shadforth said.

For the Ladd family, it’s the left-of-centre materials and themes that keep them interested.

“Art workshops and Family Day provide something that my kids lack at school, by offering more than just two-dimensional drawing,” Ms Ladd said.

“They love the variety of stuff they can do, and they’re things we wouldn’t normally think of doing,” Ms Ladd said, “we love it, that’s why we keep coming back.”

Noosa Regional Gallery hosts Family Day from 11am to 2pm on the second Sunday of each month. Family Day is a Friends Noosa Regional Gallery initiative. It’s a free event, no bookings required. For more information, contact the Gallery on (07) 5329 6145.

The next Family Day is Sunday, February 14, 2016. 

10 February 2016