General News
22 August, 2024
Guest artist guides students through culture
A SPECIAL guest artist has helped St Thomas’ Primary School students develop a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture and art.
Last week students received a visit from Ngarrindjeri artist Emma Stenhouse, who provided an opportunity for students to learn more, ask any questions they had and even create their own Aboriginal artwork.
Mrs Stenhouse said it had been exciting to share “the beautiful things” in Aboriginal culture with all the students.
“I’m an early childhood educator by trade, so sharing my culture has always been something I’m really passionate about,” she said.
“When people know about something, they aren’t scared it.
“This is a lovely way for students to learn about culture and embrace different practices.”
Mrs Stenhouse has previously worked with other schools in the region, including St Colman’s Primary School in Mortlake, and said she was happy to see the emphasis local schools had placed on connecting students with Aboriginal culture.
“It’s amazing,” she said.
“It fills my heart with so much joy to hear them have an understanding of culture.
“They don’t have the baggage that we had when they’re sharing about it, so they have a lot of enthusiasm and sharing.
“So as much as they’re learning about my culture, I’m learning about their beliefs as well.
“It’s an exciting time when you can hear from younger people and learn more about their experiences.”
St Thomas’ Primary School art teacher Lisa Cavarsan said students had spend the week prior to the visit learning more about Aboriginal artwork and culture.
This included watching a presentation showcasing a collaboration Mrs Stenhouse recently undertook with Jayco Australia to paint a caravan with an Aboriginal design as part of Jayco’s ‘Greatest Escape Competition’.
Mrs Stenhouse had also previously designed jerseys worn by professional sporting teams as part of their respective Indigenous Rounds.
Mrs Cavarsan said students had relished the opportunity to not only learn more about art and culture, but ask questions in a judgement-free environment.
“We’re very lucky to have such great support for the arts program from Matthew (Uzkuraitis, principal),” she said.
“It’s wonderful to have someone of Emma’s ability in to work with the children, and know they don’t have to be scared of learning about Indigenous iconography.
“Letting the kids see not only the artwork, but how widespread it has become now has been very exciting.”