This Spring School Holiday, Dya Australia brought the beauty of nature and creativity together in a colourful workshop for primary school children at the Port Melbourne Library. The session, titled Watercolour Botanica, gave young participants the chance to explore painting with watercolours while learning from the natural world around them.
The event was part of the library’s school holiday program, designed to offer fun and meaningful learning experiences during the break. With sunlight streaming in and tables filled with real leaves and flowers, students were invited to slow down, observe closely, and express what they saw, using only a brush, water, and colour.
Creative Learning in Action
Throughout the 1.5-hour session, children were gently guided through techniques that supported creative learning and mindfulness. They explored colour mixing, experimented with brush strokes, and practiced layering paints, all while using nature as their inspiration.
Rather than focusing on perfection, the session encouraged personal expression and careful observation. Some children chose to paint delicate leaves, others focused on vibrant spring flowers. All were supported to explore at their own pace, gaining confidence with each brushstroke.
This kind of open-ended artmaking builds more than artistic skill, it nurtures problem-solving, focus, and emotional regulation in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.
Why It Matters
What made this workshop special wasn’t just the painting, it was the growth that happened through the process.
By engaging their senses and working with natural materials, children developed:
- Mindful attention through breathing and brush control
- Confidence in their ability to create and express
- Connection with others through shared experience
- A sense of pride in their finished artworks
Art programs like this offer a break from screens and routine learning, helping children to build skills they’ll carry beyond the classroom. With each child creating a unique piece, the session became a space for self-expression and quiet joy.
Connecting Through Art
The Port Melbourne Library provided an ideal space for children to learn and create together. The welcoming, light-filled environment helped foster a calm, curious atmosphere, one where young artists could explore freely and feel supported.
This session is a great example of how community activations can combine creativity and learning in a way that feels both fun and purposeful. Families left with smiles, artworks in hand, and a renewed appreciation for how art can be both personal and shared.
Art-Based Learning with Dya Australia
At Dya Australia, we believe that creativity plays a powerful role in education and wellbeing. Our workshops are carefully designed to offer children the chance to explore, learn, and reflect, all through the lens of art.
Whether in schools, libraries, or local events, our programs bring together:
- Art incursions that inspire
- Creative learning linked to nature and self-awareness
- Mindfulness in education through thoughtful, hands-on experiences
- Community engagement for all ages
Want to Bring Dya to Your School or Library?
We offer tailored art workshops and school holiday programs across Melbourne. Our sessions are ideal for primary school groups, council-run events, and community spaces looking to deliver enriching, hands-on learning.
Contact Dya Australia to learn how you can bring our programs to your school, library, or local event.