As part of the University of Melbourne’s WinterFest 2025, Dya Australia delivered a standout community activation that blended creativity, technology, and group participation into a single immersive event. Our Paint in the Dark session engaged over 100 students in a UV-lit art experience designed specifically for large-scale community events in higher education settings.
What Happened
Held inside The Dome at the University of Melbourne, the space was transformed into a glowing, blacklight-lit studio, where students created their artwork using fluoro paint. To support the large number of participants, Dya implemented a self-guided tutorial system using digital tools. Upon arrival, each student scanned a QR code to access a custom-made video tutorial directly on their phone. This allowed them to begin creating right away—no need to wait for live demonstrations.
The video-led tutorial walked students through four key steps:
Paint on their hands or faces to break the ice and engage playfully with the materials.
Select a pre-designed canvas from a variety of illustrations provided by Dya.
Use UV-reactive fluoro paint to bring the designs to life.
Add their own creative flair, with encouragement to experiment with texture, pattern, and even to paint outside the lines.
The structure gave students a creative foundation while leaving room for personal expression—perfectly balancing freedom and flow. Music, vibrant colours, and a supportive environment turned the space into a glowing social hub that felt both artistic and celebratory.
Harnessing Digital Solutions for Big Group Impact
At Dya Australia, we specialise in large-format art activities for big groups, and digital facilitation is a key part of our approach. The use of a tailored instruction video ensured that every participant—regardless of when they joined—received the same clear guidance without needing constant individual support. This allowed our facilitators to focus on supporting students creatively and socially, making the experience feel personal even at scale.
The Value of Creative Activation in Higher Education
This activation was more than just an art session—it was an opportunity for students to connect, unwind, and engage with their campus community in a creative, low-pressure environment. It highlighted how meaningful, hands-on community engagement can be designed for large cohorts without sacrificing quality or accessibility.
Paint in the Dark demonstrated the power of combining art, digital facilitation, and group experience to support student wellbeing, self-expression, and connection—essential pillars of a modern higher education experience.
Dya’s Role and Ongoing Impact
This event is a reflection of Dya Australia’s broader commitment to designing customised, engaging creative activations that serve educational, corporate, and community audiences. Whether it’s university campuses, schools, or public events, our art-led experiences are crafted to build connection, foster creativity, and leave a lasting impression.
Connect with Us
To see more of Dya Australia’s creative education activities, follow us on social media. We regularly share updates on new school incursions, teacher professional development, and team-building challenges for students that inspire learning and creativity across Melbourne and beyond.
Follow Dya Australia on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Be part of a growing community that supports creativity, student success, and the future of education through experiential learning.