Motifs of Country is a creative workshop in response to the Carrolup children’s artworks. In this session, students have the opportunity to explore the Once Known exhibition at 139 St Georges Terrace, where they observe the use of colour, pattern and symbolism within the displayed works. Drawing inspiration from these elements, students then develop their own contemporary motifs based on forms found in nature.
The workshop is designed to invite students to consider how expressive design elements can convey a connection to Country. Through a combination of guided viewing, discussion and hands-on artmaking, students develop unique motifs that reflect both their environment and personal connection to place.
Workshop Details
Location: Once Known, 139 St Georges Terrace, Perth CBD
Duration: 2 hours
Year Levels: Secondary (9-12)
Group Size: Up to 25 students
Available Days: Monday, Tuesday or Thursday
Workshop Structure
The session commences with an introduction to the Once Known exhibition, allowing students to become familiar with the Carrolup artists’ designs, with their rhythm, symmetry and symbolic meanings. While examining selected artworks, students are encouraged to think about the relationship between art, design and livelihood. Students will actively sketch shapes, colours and patterns that draw their attention during this viewing.
Following this, students engage in a collaborative discussion to reflect on their observations. These insights are then translated into individual design concepts, as students explore natural materials such as leaves, bark, pods or seeds. During this phase, they develop visual symbols that express their connection to their environment and culture.
The artmaking session will then concentrate on developing an individual motif, drawing inspiration from natural elements and the legacy of the Carrolup children’s artwork. Students will produce their own motif artwork using collage.
The workshop concludes with a sharing circle and a display of the artworks. This final activity encourages students to share their insights into seeing, interpreting and representing the natural world through the language of design.
Learning Outcomes
Motifs of Country supports the development of skills in visual analysis, creative experimentation and critical reflection. Throughout the workshop, students will:
- Explore artistic techniques used by the Carrolup child artists
- Connect art to its cultural and historical context
- Discover how design can communicate identity, memory and connection to place
All interactive workshops and tours need to be booked well in advance. Please contact us to check availability or call us to discuss.
Contact: gallery@curtin.edu.au
Phone: 08 9266 4155
Header Image: Once known child artist, The Moon Rises (detail), 1946-50, pastel and charcoal on paper, 29.4 x 45cm. Curtin University Art Collection. The Herbert Mayer Collection of Carrolup Artwork was donated for educational and research purposes by Colgate University, Hamilton, New York, USA in 2013.
Booking Form
