Visual Arts

Visual Arts at Warranwood Primary School engages students in a journey of discovery, experimentation and problem-solving.

 

We aim to provide a fun, hands-on, thought-provoking and creative learning environment that includes art, craft and design. Through this learning area, students become increasingly confident, curious, creative, expressive and reflective thinkers. We encourage students to think outside the box.

 

Students create visual artworks that express their own and others’ ideas while developing skills in using tools, techniques and materials. Ideas are generated through:

 

  • Personal experiences

  • Imagination

  • Critical thinking

  • Practical exploration

Students attend a weekly one-hour session in our purpose-built, spacious Visual Arts room, where they explore and expand their understanding of their world — and other worlds.

 

Students also learn about the role of the artist, craftsperson and designer and their contributions to society across different places and times. The roles of both Creator and Viewer are experienced through:

  • Indoor and outdoor school-based programs

  • Excursions to venues such as the National Gallery of Victoria

  • Incursions with local artists and craftspeople

Students share their artworks with peers to engage in positive feedback and see their work displayed throughout the school and in bi-annual art shows.

 

 

Viewpoints

Visual Arts supports students to view the world through multiple lenses. Students explore artists’ techniques, styles, ideas, cultural influences and historical contexts.

 

They learn about a diverse range of artists including:

 

  • Pablo Picasso

  • Frida Kahlo

  • Claude Monet

  • Rembrandt

  • Romero Britto

  • Keith Haring

  • Andy Warhol

  • Tjanpi Desert Weavers

  • Sidney Nolan

  • Albert Namatjira

Students also engage with contemporary and local Melbourne artists and craftspeople, strengthening connections to community and place.

 

 

Art Forms

Students explore a broad range of art forms including:

 

  • Painting

  • Drawing

  • Sculpture

  • Ceramics

  • Printmaking

  • Mixed media

  • Textiles

  • Digital artworks

  • Installations

The list is long — and always growing.

 

 

Materials

Traditional materials such as paint, fabric and clay are used alongside contemporary and sustainable options including:

 

  • Dried leaves

  • Sticks

  • Sand

  • Recycled and repurposed materials

Students learn to select materials purposefully to communicate meaning.

 

 

Visual Conventions

Students are introduced to:

 

Elements of Art
Colour, Line, Shape, Value, Form and Texture

 

Principles of Art
Repetition, Unity, Space, Contrast, Balance and Scale

 

In the junior years, these concepts are introduced through fun characters, stories, songs and rhymes. As students progress to Year 6, their understanding deepens into sophisticated application and analysis.

 

 

Festival of the Arts

Warranwood Primary is home to our exclusive Festival of the Arts, aimed at “bringing together all people in the celebration of all things ART.”

 

Developed by our Visual Arts teacher Jeenah Metcalfe, and aligned to the Victorian Curriculum 2.0, the festival weaves together the key ideas and values of our Visual Arts program:

 

Meaning – Purpose – Fun – Culture – Connection – Community

 

Held bi-annually, the Festival includes:

 

Exhibition

A vibrant gallery-style showcase of 2D and 3D artworks from every student in Prep–6. Students step into the roles of both artist and audience.

 

Auction

Each class collaboratively creates a group artwork, which is auctioned at the event. This provides authentic purpose for creating and strengthens peer and classroom connections.

 

Kids Market

Students experience a real-world entrepreneurial setting by making and selling their own handmade arts and crafts. Working in pairs or small groups, students:

 

  • Hire a table space

  • Develop products

  • Design displays

  • Manage sales

A highlight is that students keep all proceeds from their sales.

 

Local Artist Stalls

Local makers are invited to participate, building relationships and supporting sustainable, community-based enterprise — particularly timely as the event is often held in November.

 

Roving & Stage Performers

Senior students develop performance acts through their Performing Arts program and perform throughout the event. Students passionate about singing, dancing or comedy showcase their talents on stage alongside local musicians.

 

Friends of Warranwood (FOW)

Our dedicated parent and guardian group plays an integral role in the festival. From food and administration to event set-up and creating the magical festoon lighting atmosphere, FOW embodies the true Warranwood community spirit.

 

 

River of Voices

In 2017, thanks to Creative Learning Partnerships Victoria and Melbourne artist Robert Scholten, Warranwood Primary secured a $20,000 grant to create a 40+ metre mural entitled River of Voices.

 

This powerful installation flows along the walls of our courtyard and reflects the journey of our local area and community.

Major themes represented include:

  • Aboriginal Beginnings

  • Agriculture

  • Urbanisation

  • Modern Times

  • The Future

The “river” refers to the nearby Yarra River in Warrandyte, while the “voices” represent the many individuals who have shaped our community. Students, staff and families all contributed to this meaningful project, making it a lasting symbol of identity and belonging.

 

 



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