Painting a brighter future

MARYBOROUGH ART SOCIETY 7 DECEMBER – 17 DECEMBER

Plastic pollution and saving our earth are a major topic in today’s society. Children as young as seven are addressing this issue through art. Students at Shanay’s Art School in Maryborough are currently working on sculptures and paintings which express their concerns about the damage plastic is causing in our world. Their works will be on display at the Maryborough Art Society Gallery from December 7th to December 17th.

Students of Shanay’s Art School were intrigued by Australia’s plastic bag ban and wanted to know more about the effect that plastic has on the earth. They discussed what impact plastic bags have on the environment, how they can recycle their plastics and use reusable bags instead. Shanay ran a canvas bag workshop where students could paint and decorate their own bag which could be used in place of plastic bags, which the students thought was great. Since term two of 2018 Shanay has been working on the idea of creating and displaying a gallery piece to showcase her students’ hard work and their strong beliefs about plastic pollution.

In term three Shanay displayed pictures of plastic in the environment such as a seahorse holding an earbud with its tail which students discussed and brainstormed ideas for artwork. Students started creating pieces and experimenting with different mediums and colours. Each student is creating and developing their canvas with their own identity and displaying their interpretation of plastic pollution.

Students are encouraged to use any medium they like, with some even fusing plastic to their artwork. Some students took to the marine life side and how aquatic animals and sea life can be harmed by plastic. The students are putting the final touches to their artworks, focusing on what they really want to depict. The 10-day exhibition will include the sculptures and canvases of more than 20 students.