EVERY student at Central Midlands Senior High School had the chance to work with internationally acclaimed sculptor Graham Hay during his artist-in-residency at the school last week.
Art teacher Sally Hill said small groups of 13-15 students enjoyed a one-and-a-half-hour session with the artist.
Ms Hill said feedback from the students was extremely positive.
“The students who don’t normally do art were especially keen, asking when they could come back and finish their pieces,” she said.
“It was amazing to see students relax and interact socially while be creative.
“Kids who might not be so sure of themselves in the playground felt quite empowered.
“Part of the project’s aim tied in with NAIDOC week themes, encouraging kids to come together in a way they don’t usually, doing something artistic.”
Year 10 student Harley Bruce said he enjoyed the session.
“I’m not normally an art student and working with clay is new to me, but this was fun,” he said.
“Working with Graham was pretty inspiring.”
Ms Hill said many modern children didn’t do much with their hands other than texting and playing computer games, so it was an important activity to remind them of their creative abilities.
“It was also an encouraging and amazing opportunity for my own professional development,” she said.
“ I thank the staff and administration for supporting the project and for allowing lower school students out of their usual classes.”