Arts programs and workshops for crafty kids on now for the school holidays

There’s nothing like a good, hands-on art and craft workshop to keep the little ones busy. From painting to sculpture, and even animation, these courses from Perth's leading arts galleries and art centres will bring out your child’s creative side, as well as taking some of the pressure off keeping them entertained for hours on end.

Art Gallery of WA

Located right in the heart of the city, the Art Gallery of WA is running a daily Artist Activation designed for families. Balga Waangkiny (Balga Talking) Yarning Together is designed by artist Sharyn Egan, and seeks to inspire connection and mindfulness. It offers a place where you can sit quietly, untangle your thoughts, share stories, and weave feeling into an ever-growing installation inspired by the native grass trees known as Balga. This all ages experience is open from 10am-4pm every day except Tuesdays until July 19, and entry is by gold donation. For an enhanced experience, creator Sharyn Egan will be in the space from 10am-2pm on Saturday July 18 for discussion and input. Balga Waangkiny Yarning Together is presented as part of the Pulse Perspectives exhibition currently showing at AGWA. There are also a number of free gallery activities available for children and families, and more information on those can be found here.

Fremantle Arts Centre

Fremantle Arts Centre is famous for their art courses, and these school holidays are no different. From pottery to print making, and animation to illustration, Fremantle Arts Centre have courses suitable for every child, with classes aimed at specific age ranges. There are still spots left but get in quick! These courses are ever popular and may reach capacity soon. There are courses running every weekday these holidays until the July 17. The full list of children’s courses is available here. You might even find something for yourself, as the Fremantle Arts Centre runs courses for adults later in the year.

PICA

For something crafty to do at home, the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art (PICA) have launched their PICA at Home Series in conjunction with Perth audio-visual collective Astro Morphs. Developed during their studio residency at PICA, they’ve developed a series of online art-making activities, combining both art and science. These activities include making animal eyes, DNA fridge magnets and a matchstick light spectrum. Make sure to share your creations online using the hashtag #picaathome for a chance to be featured on PICA’s socials!