Visual Arts

Foundation

This term, Foundation students have been revising their understanding of shape, colour theory, line, and pattern through paint-resist techniques. Students began by drawing their favourite foods using oil pastels. As they created their drawings, they were encouraged to consider the shapes and colours they would use.

To further develop their artistic skills, students also explored the concept of proportion. They were encouraged to use the entire page to create larger, more detailed drawings.

Once their drawings were complete, students investigated how oil pastel resists watercolour, causing the paint to be repelled from the wax surface. They then used watercolours to paint the background of their artwork, allowing the vibrant oil pastel drawings to stand out against the colourful washes.

Grade 1/2

This term, students have been exploring abstract art through the work of Kandinsky. We discussed his use of line, colour, and shape, and how these elements contributed to his distinctive artistic style. Students further developed their understanding of abstract art by learning that it is not a representation of real-life objects, but instead focuses on the elements of art, such as colour, balance, pattern, line, and shape, to create an artwork.

This week, we began our textiles unit, where students created a hessian bookmark. They learnt how to sew a simple running stitch using plastic needles and wool. Students were encouraged to challenge themselves by incorporating multiple running stitches throughout their bookmark and experimenting with zigzag stitching to create decorative patterns. After this, students were able to glue on eyes or buttons to their designs to add extra interest and flair to their bookmarks.

Grade 3/4

This term, the Year 3/4 students began their ceramics unit with an exploratory lesson, where they had the opportunity to model an object of their choice. This introductory activity allowed students to demonstrate and revisit their existing knowledge of clay techniques while becoming familiar with the properties of the material.

This week, students have been creating their own pinch pot monsters. The focus of this lesson has been to revise the pinch pot technique and further develop their clay construction skills by learning how to use slip as a glue to securely attach additional features, such as eyes, ears, horns, arms, and other decorative elements, to their monsters.

Grade 5/6

This term, the Year 5/6 students revised the clay slab-building techniques they had previously learnt to create decorative trinket trays and plates inspired by Australian flora and fauna. Throughout the unit, students observed and used real-life reference materials to accurately replicate the unique shapes, textures, and forms of native plants, including wattle, eucalyptus leaves and gum nuts.

The focus of this project was on developing intricate low-relief designs by applying a range of textural techniques to enhance the surface of their clay pieces. Students also refined their ceramics skills by carefully scoring, applying slip, and smoothing each decorative element onto the slab to ensure a secure bond. Throughout the process, they were encouraged to pay close attention to the composition and details on their ceramic piece.

Art News!

Finally, after a long wait, we are thrilled to announce that Newlands Primary School now has its very own kiln! This exciting addition to our Visual Arts program would not have been possible without the incredible support of our school community.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all of our families, the Parents and Friends Association (PFA), our dedicated staff, and the school leadership team for supporting this endeavour. Through the generosity of our community and the funds raised at the 2025 Art Show, we have been able to purchase and install a kiln that will provide students with exciting opportunities to explore ceramics for many years to come.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this vision a reality. Your support will have a lasting impact on the creative learning experiences of our students.