By Michael Doran
Wandin Yallock Primary School is holding its Annual Art Exhibition at Mont de Lancey in Wandin, running until 6 November.
This year the exhibition has been extended to two weeks and features pieces from students in Foundation through to year 6. Visual Arts Teacher, Courtney Sharp said that the students get a real kick out of seeing their whole year’s work up on the walls.
“We really do value our arts program and this exhibition is featuring many different types of art. We have Thai dyed tee-shirts from the senior students, weaving, 3D constructions, string-art chandeliers and relief sculptured masks on show.”
“All years do art classes for at least one hour a week and there is a lot to be gained from children being exposed to art. It’s a great outlet for their emotions, imaginations and as a way of expressing themselves.”
The school has a close connection to Mont de Lancey, where students play host to other schools visiting the historic homestead.
Principal Trevor Vass said, “We are involved in on-site education here where we take students on a tour of the property and talk about the history of the Yarra Valley”.
“It is fantastic leadership development for our students and we are kept really busy running the program, mainly with schools from the eastern suburbs. They get dressed-up in clothing from the times and it’s a fun experience for all those involved.”
“They also feel a sense of pride that students from other areas come to learn about the community they live in.”
Speaking of the art program, he echoed Ms. Sharp’s words of how much art is valued at the school.
“It is so important in their education and a wonderful way for them to express their individual creativity,” he said.
“The exhibition is a fantastic way for them to celebrate what they have achieved and by putting their work on show it sends a message that it is valued.”
