Students Get Creative

Students at Mt Molloy State School have been working with community members and local artists to create unique mixed media sculptural installations which will beautify the school.

The project is funded by the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) 2018-19 program and encourages students to learn new skills in collaborative planning, designing and producing a large-scale artwork, using a variety of art techniques.  RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Mareeba Shire Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

Chair of the RADF Advisory Committee, Councillor Angela Toppin said the project has strengthened connections between the school and the local community. “Council is pleased to support and promote arts and culture in regional areas,” she said.

“I commend the Mt Molloy State School community for putting forward such a wonderful project and look forward to seeing the final installations.”

Students have also interviewed residents and have been undertaking local history research to inspire one of the installations.

The installations are being created from clay, plaster, recycled metal and found objects will depict the school’s kitchen garden program, local history and local environment with a focus on the unique birdlife in Mt Molloy.

Coordinator, Ms Gayle MacGregor from Mt Molloy State School said students and adults are thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to work with clay and learn new skills and artistic concepts.

“So far they have made toppings for their giant pizza and are now working on a sculptural installation representing the local birdlife,” Ms MacGregor said.

Ms MacGregor thanked Mareeba Shire Council for the funding and support through the RADF program. “The school is very grateful for the RADF grant that has provided this opportunity to learn and produce a permanent display of artwork that can be enjoyed by the school, local community and other visitors,” she said.

Queensland Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch said investing in creative and cultural experiences through RADF strengthened regional communities, boosted cultural tourism, and enhanced the quality of life in rural and remote towns and cities.

“RADF is a unique partnership between the Queensland Government and Mareeba Shire Council to support local talent, unite communities and celebrate the arts across the state.

“The Queensland Government, through Arts Queensland, is contributing $2.08 million in 2018-19 in partnership with 58 councils statewide to help deliver cultural experiences which align with local priorities,” Ms Enoch said.

The sculptural installations will be completed by the end of the year.