Super Art Heroes: Bringing the Gallery to Life for Preschoolers
The Art Gallery of NSW runs a program called Super Art Heroes, specifically designed for preschool children. The program uses storytelling, role-play, and movement to teach young children about shapes, color, and form.
Children from John Brotchie Nursery School recently participated, viewing works such as Sidney Nolan's Ned Kelly and John Olsen's Five Bells.
"It's really important for children to see art..."
— Deborah Bennetts, Teacher
Background
John Brotchie's principal, Rebecca Andrews, has been bringing preschoolers to the gallery for 20 years. Teacher Deborah Bennetts noted that some families may not consider an art gallery suitable for very young children.
The Impact
According to Andrews, gallery visits spark creativity and enthusiasm for art in the classroom.
"After the visit there seems to be even more enthusiasm to get to the art easel..."
— Rebecca Andrews, Principal
Bek Golsby-Smith, assistant learning producer, highlighted the transformative effect of the program.
"It brings the gallery to life..."
— Bek Golsby-Smith
Long-Term Vision
Golsby-Smith expressed hope that the experience creates lifelong gallery visitors.