The National Gallery makes a fine art out of lockdown, for children
The National Gallery of Victoria has collaborated with Melbourne-based artists to deliver virtual art classes to children during lockdown.
BY TRICIA RIVERA
The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) has provided children with a creative outlet during Victoria’s lockdown, by hosting free virtual art classes in collaboration with Melbourne-based artists.
The NGV has introduced a virtual art club as part of the NGV Kids at Home program, where children are able to meet artists, learn about their art style and take part in classes using everyday drawing materials.
In a statement to MOJO News, an NGV spokesperson said creativity is beneficial during long periods of isolation.
"Research shows that spending time being creative, drawing, making, working with our hands, can be a meditative and relaxing experience,” they said.
“Taking part in an art-making activity at the kitchen table can change the atmosphere, trigger the imagination, start conversations and foster a sense of wellbeing in everyone in the home environment.”
The 30-45 minute online classes have been received well with more than 3000 children participating since March, including those living in regional and interstate areas.
The NGV chooses contemporary artists who are representative of communities in Melbourne, and whose work appeals to children.
“We wish to dispel the idea of the artist as the inaccessible genius and instead engage our audiences with contemporary artists whose creative ideas have appeal to children and represent the many communities living in Melbourne and Victoria,” the spokesperson said.
Melbourne-based artist and NGV art class teacher, Alice Oehr believes having a framework for an activity with room to move is an effective approach to hosting the classes.
“I always make sure there's some room for a bit of silliness, I also like to ensure there's a lot of room for experimentation, so people can go off track with their creativity,” Ms Oehr said.
“I think the main lesson to be taken from this time is how to entertain ourselves, kids and adults alike, and learning to solve boredom with creative pursuits.”
Ms Oehr enjoys teaching the classes and believes it is important for artists to make connections with their community.
“Having the support of people around you is everything,” she said.
“Art can be a very isolating career: making it alone, then exposing many of your innermost ideas, so knowing others see and support those things is really uplifting."
NGV member Shoan Lo and her daughter Abigail, 9, have been participating in and enjoying the art classes.
“We absolutely love it, I already have the dates for NGV kids online for the next 3 sessions,” she said.
“Some creative activity can have an effect close to meditation, which is especially good during lockdown to ‘zone out’ from the negative feelings of being trapped - kind of like an oasis.”
Until the Gallery can reopen, all participation is encouraged in the next session with Alfred Liu on Saturday, October 24 from 11am.
