Overview
Unleash creativity in an inspiring, sculpture-focused visual arts program set against the breathtaking landscapes of Kamay Botany Bay National Park!
This program is designed to support and extend the capabilities of high potential, gifted, and talented (HPGE) students. Offering meaningful and engaging activities, this exclusive one-day experience caters to primary students, inviting young artists to explore sculpture as a powerful form of artistic expression.
The workshops are held on selected dates throughout the year and do not require teacher attendance.
Designed by Fine Artist and Sculptor Grace Buckley with Aunty Rachel Randell, the program takes students on a journey of discovery through Kamay Botany Bay National Park. Students will explore existing sculptures and draw inspiration from the rugged coastline, bushland, and rocky platforms.
This program nurtures both creative excellence and social well-being, providing a unique opportunity for high potential and gifted students to learn from a professional sculptor, gain insight into the cultures and histories of Aboriginal people from Aunty Rachel, collaborate with like-minded peers, and develop their artistic talents in an awe-inspiring setting. Each school is invited to nominate students who would benefit from this one-day workshop—Sculpture by the Bay. The maximum number of students for each workshop is 30.
Give your students the chance to explore, create, and be inspired—secure your nominations today!
Students will:
- Participate in Cultural & Historical introduction led by Aunty Rachel Randall, students will begin the day with a guided session exploring both colonial and First Nations histories of Kamay Botany Bay. This provides a rich cultural and historical context for their creative work.
- Participate in an Art Discussion & Inspiration by Fine Artist Grace Buckley who will lead students on a guided tour and engaging discussion focused on 3 site-specific public sculptures. Students will be encouraged to reflect on how place, materials, and cultural stories influence these public artworks.
- Participate in On-Country Life Drawing in a guided outdoor session, where students will engage in observational drawing, capturing the natural forms and textures of the local environment. This exercise will serve as a foundation for their sculptural ideas.
- Participate in a sculpture workshop where students will create their own sculptures using sustainable, natural, and found materials such as raffia, wool, sticks, and bark. Emphasis will be placed on working respectfully with the land and drawing inspiration from their environment and cultural learnings.
- Participate in an Exhibition & Reflection - The day will conclude with a student-led pop-up exhibition, where students will display their work, share their creative process, and reflect on their learning and inspirations at Kamay Botany Bay Environmental Education Centre on Kurnell Public School site.
Learning across the curriculum content
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures
- Sustainability
- Literacy
- Numeracy
