Visual Arts 

It's hard to believe that we've been back at school for four weeks already - time certainly does fly when the art room is busy. Our Foundation students have been designing and making Curious Creatures from air-dry modelling foam whilst our 1/2s are also making Curious Creatures from earthenware clay. Year 3/4 children are exploring printmaking using hand-made stencils and gelli plates - the looks of wonder on their faces as they pull back a print to see the results are great. The Year 5 students are creating canvas paintings inspired by the work of Lamai Anne, a New Zealand artist who has made rural Victoria her home. Graduation clocks are the focus for Year 6s this term and it is exciting to see the variety of ideas developing. 

As we celebrate NAIDOC Week it is important to reflect on the historical and cultural  significance of indigenous art. This year's theme Always Was, Always Will Be illustrates the unbroken relationship between our First Nations people to the land and waterways. Often, indigenous artworks stem from practicality and are directly related to the stories of the land and waterways. Traditional art forms such as weavings, paintings, possum cloaks and wood carvings are integral to culture, connection to the Dreamtime and story telling. At Great Ryrie, indigenous art is covered in the art curriculum with sensitivity to beliefs and customs. For those looking to celebrate, connect with, or learn more about the history and culture of First Nations people, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) has a series of free online programs and resources suited to all age groups available at the following website https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/whats-on/

The image below is a beautiful and thoughtful artwork by Eden W from 56E, created specifically as a reflection of the First Nations people and their links to the land. 

Great work Eden! 

Ann-Maree Bosomworth

Visual Art Teacher