Curating Self-Expression

Thomas Mahon 13 May 2024

Starting this April, and running right up until June 1st, we’re curating all forms of self-expression. We’ll be dancing, storytelling, playing, making, all on the basis of exploring and encouraging the skills required for children to employ and enjoy… self-expression!

But why is self-expression so important? We’re glad you asked!

When children learn to express themselves, it fosters creativity (of course) but it also builds confidence and emotional intelligence, empowering them to communicate their ideas and feelings, develop an identity and belonging and enhance critical thinking.

Studies show that practicing forms of self-expression in our early years builds skills that enhance our lives well into our adulthood.

Studies also show that self-expression is a vital component of a child’s development as it fosters creativity, individuality, and emotional intelligence. Through self-expression, children learn to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in various forms, whether it be through art, music, storytelling, or play. This process allows them to explore and understand their own identities, preferences, and strengths, laying the foundation for self-awareness and confidence. By encouraging self-expression, caregivers and educators provide children with a safe space to freely express themselves without fear of judgment, promoting a sense of autonomy and self-esteem.

Lastly, self-expression plays a crucial role in enhancing cognitive and social skills. When children express themselves, they engage in critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making, as they navigate the process of articulating their thoughts and emotions. Moreover, self-expression facilitates communication and empathy, as children learn to understand and respect the perspectives of others while expressing their own. Through collaborative activities and shared creative experiences, children develop interpersonal skills, build relationships, and cultivate a sense of belonging within their communities. Ultimately, embracing self-expression empowers children to navigate the complexities of the world with authenticity, resilience, and compassion.

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Mmmmm… Heavenly! 😍🎨🧑‍🎨

Q: Is it a real car?
A: Yes, and each has a special place in our ♥️ 

Q: Do you ever clean it?
A: Yes, but the timing is a hot debate. 🧽 There is so much beauty in the layers, but also purity and timeless charm in its bare form. 

Q: How do you choose the colours?
A: Have you ever stirred up a slurpy? 🥤 If we’re not careful, it ends up brown; our team have become experts in avoiding that! 😆 

Q: Why? Just why?
A: All our exhibits are thoughtfully crafted to support early learning and creativity. Our world is full of boundaries and conformity (in most cases, for good reason!). The MoPA Art Car exhibit 🚗 is designed to give children an opportunity to do something that doesn’t “feel” within the confines impressed upon us; to help them see, experience first-hand, and learn, that creativity can so often be found in media and forms we never imagined would combine. 

🏆 WIN WIN WIN 🏆 

Hands up if the Art Car is one of your faves 🤚? We’ll choose one hand up, tomorrow (25/2/25) at 5PM Melbourne time, from the comments below, completely at random, and if your name is the one that comes out of the hat you we’ll be sending you over a $100 Gift Voucher to come and lay down the next coat of paint on the Art Car 🎨❤️ 

PS, Don’t forget — it’s “Forever Young February” at MoPA this month and you still have a few days to enjoy FREE entry for Grandparents!! xx

ART CLASS ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN FOR TERM 2!

Suited for children aged 5 to 12, with options for carers to ‘drop-and-run’ or ‘stay-and-play’. 4pm weekdays. Limited spots available.

Classes occur weekdays (select your museum for times)

All of the art materials & textiles required are provided

Chef-prepared snacks are available for extra convenience

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