NEPEAN School students and teachers are proud of their latest art project – a series of kinetic sculptures powered by the sun, wind and rain.
They couldn’t wait to show off their efforts to Creative Industries Minister Martin Foley when he visited the Seaford school last week.
A $10,000 grant from Creative Victoria’s 2015 Artists-in-Schools program has allowed sculptor and sound artist Michael Prior to work with students on the project that brings together rhythm, motion and energy, and explores themes of creativity, community and sustainability.
Mr Prior – who has exhibited internationally – began working with the students in April. Since then, they have designed and built their own kinetic sound sculptures using recycled materials.
Their work will form the inspiration for a large outdoor sculpture and sound artwork to be powered by natural elements and alternative energy.
Mr Foley said the Artists-in-Schools program enables students to connect with their inner artist and unlock their creative potential.
“The arts can have a powerful effect on learning. This project brings together the arts and sciences to investigate a vital issue of our time, environmental sustainability, in an engaging way.
“Congratulations to Nepean School, Michael, and all the students involved in this inventive, resourceful and experimental project.”
The Artists-in-Schools program is a partnership between Creative Victoria and the Department of Education and Training. It has been running 30 years.
The program provides creative and engaging learning experiences in Victorian schools, and shows how creativity can be used to enhance learning across the curriculum for students of all abilities.
It connects artists with young, creative community members, and offers professional development opportunities for teachers.
Applications are open until 22 September for schools wishing to undertake an Artists-in-Schools project next year. See creative.vic.gov.au/ais
