Curating Self-Expression

Thomas Mahon 13 May 2024

Starting this April, and running right up until June 1st, we’re curating all forms of self-expression. We’ll be dancing, storytelling, playing, making, all on the basis of exploring and encouraging the skills required for children to employ and enjoy… self-expression!

But why is self-expression so important? We’re glad you asked!

When children learn to express themselves, it fosters creativity (of course) but it also builds confidence and emotional intelligence, empowering them to communicate their ideas and feelings, develop an identity and belonging and enhance critical thinking.

Studies show that practicing forms of self-expression in our early years builds skills that enhance our lives well into our adulthood.

Studies also show that self-expression is a vital component of a child’s development as it fosters creativity, individuality, and emotional intelligence. Through self-expression, children learn to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in various forms, whether it be through art, music, storytelling, or play. This process allows them to explore and understand their own identities, preferences, and strengths, laying the foundation for self-awareness and confidence. By encouraging self-expression, caregivers and educators provide children with a safe space to freely express themselves without fear of judgment, promoting a sense of autonomy and self-esteem.

Lastly, self-expression plays a crucial role in enhancing cognitive and social skills. When children express themselves, they engage in critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making, as they navigate the process of articulating their thoughts and emotions. Moreover, self-expression facilitates communication and empathy, as children learn to understand and respect the perspectives of others while expressing their own. Through collaborative activities and shared creative experiences, children develop interpersonal skills, build relationships, and cultivate a sense of belonging within their communities. Ultimately, embracing self-expression empowers children to navigate the complexities of the world with authenticity, resilience, and compassion.

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This week in Afternoon Art Classes we went under water!! 

Such AMAZING creations! And such beautiful friendships flourishing. 

Mid-term enrolments are still open with select availability - we’d LOVE you to join our afternoon crew! 

x From the MoPA Art Teachers
MoPA Geelong
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ALL OPEN NOW!

MoPA Adelaide opening 2026. 

But where next? 

Perhaps somewhere a little more… Ahh… Humid? x
Today was one of the highlights in MoPA’s lil’ lifetime — with the team from @sunriseon7, including the hilarious @sammacinsta, joining us at MoPA to explore our new Museum in Nunawading! 

To the production and studio teams from @channel7 - thank you. You were an absolute delight to host. The way you made all our staff and guests feel confident in themselves and valued as participants in your broadcast is a testament to your genuine kindness and expertise 😘 xx
Afternoon Art Classes are the BEST!

This week our lil’ students collaged some of the most beautiful birds you’ve ever seen. 

Incredible teachers, chef prepped snacks on tap, inspiring projects, gorgeous new friends, what more could you want!!
LET’S ADD SOME SPOTS TO YOUR SPOOKY SEASON!

Get ready for a pop of pumpkin fun this Halloween! Inspired by Yayoi Kusama’s iconic spotted pumpkins, children are invited to design their very own timber pumpkin. 

Wear it as a necklace or hang it up at home - the perfect mix of art, style, and spooooky fun. You do NOT wanna miss THIS one!
MoPA Nunawading opens TOMORROW (SAT 25th OCT)!!! Wooohoo!!! 🕺❤️💃 

An entire year in the making - but it’s finally ready. Can’t WAIT to show you all this incredible Museum!! Please remember to book ahead because all sessions in all our Museums are always operating with our regular comfy capacity limits. x
BIG KNOWN FACT: The BIG blocks ROCK!

LITTLE KNOW FACT: MoPA is the exclusive distributor!

For years we witnessed how engaging these beautiful BIG blocks are. We gathered so much evidence in their outcomes, and developed so much belief in their impact, that we eventually decided to establish a manufacturing partnership that would enable us to place the blocks in ALL our Museums. But what we also learned was that all sorts of other schools, museums, galleries, ELCs (even wineries!) would love a set of BIG blocks of their own. So we started to provide BIG blocks to all of these wonderful organisations!

Fast forward to today = MoPA is now the exclusive distributor. We send BIG block sets all over APAC!! And nothing gives us more joy than receiving all the photos of all the creations children are dreaming up.

So... If you’d like a set of blue blocks for YOUR facility, please jump onto the website or give us a shout on 1800 00 66 72 to learn more. xx
ARVO ART CLASSES ARE BACK!! Term 4 is off to a ROARING start! Such amazing creations. And such happy lil’ artists. 

We have spots left in Monday and Tuesday afternoon classes (4 til 5pm). Enrol NOW ❤️ And please shout out with any questions!!