The Power of Observation workshop is designed to encourage students to slow down and engage deeply with their surroundings. Through a combination of art, nature and recognising the Noongar seasons, students explore how observation and memory are fundamental to storytelling and self-expression.
Workshop Details
Location: John Curtin Gallery & Curtin University Gardens, Bentley Campus
Duration: 2.5 hours
Year Levels: Primary (Years 5–6) & Secondary (Years 7–10)
Group Size: Up to 30 students
Offered on: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday
Workshop Structure
Students begin the session in the Kattidj Nagãr Reflective Space at the John Curtin Gallery and reflect on the legacy of the Carrolup children. During this time, students consider how artists use memory and colour to convey feeling and sense of place.
This continues with a mindful walk through the Curtin University gardens and bush land, echoing the experiences of the Carrolup children and their teacher, Mr White. Walking on Country is a practice that fosters a deep connection to land, culture and history. Students are encouraged to observe and collect natural materials, paying attention to small details such as patterns in leaves, bird sounds and shifting light, and to hold these impressions in memory.
Students then return to the gallery and use their collected natural items such as leaves, seed pods, bark and found objects, to create assemblage art based on their observations. The emphasis is on the process of creation rather than perfection, allowing students to express what they observed and felt.
Finally students take part in a shared assemblage activity, giving students the opportunity to unite and re-work their completed artworks into one shared project.
Learning Outcomes
The Power of Observation workshop supports students in developing skills in observation, creative expression and cultural understanding. Through this experience, students will:
- Explore how artists represent ideas through their work,
- Experiment with different materials and artistic techniques,
- Reflect on artistic intention and process and
- Examine the connection between people, place and history.
All workshops and tours need to be booked well in advance. JCG can also work with your school to create tailored experiences, reach out to discuss your options. Please use the booking form and our education team will be in touch.
Email: JCGEducation@curtin.edu.au
