New look for learning

A RECENT project at Healesville Living and Learning Centre is the ultimate ‘thank you’ piece.
The art works installation was created by a class at the centre as their joint project to assist in raising the Living and Learning Centre’s profile in the community and attract participants to the centre.
“It would be a way students could give back to the centre in appreciation of the experiences they had here,” said program coordinator Darren Grainger.
“They wanted others to experience it.” Mr Grainger said the one fact the artists discovered was that the front yard of the centre didn’t attract people’s attention.
So they devised a plan to create a piece of art work that would be erected in the front yard of the centre.
“Their results are the beautiful lead lighting piece that is a combination of redgum, porcelain and glass.
“When sun bursts through the piece it produces a colourful display,” Mr Grainger explained.
The students were lead by their teacher, Merryn Auldist, who encouraged group participation to complete the work. Ms Auldist was able to enhance their learning by providing opportunities for the students to play with different art mediums before attempting their final piece.
Mr Grainger said the students, Rehana, Kate, David and Emma, gained skills such as team work, goal setting, project planning and creative arts that they will be able to take into their future learning.
They received assistance from local businesses who helped with materials and, in some cases, help from their own families.
“It became an organic process to create a piece that it is hoped will be enjoyed by others and give people a chance to see that our organisation is more than what people think.
“We are diverse,” Mr Grainger said.
“The centre believes in life-long learning, no matter what pathways you take. We may have a program that is right for you speak to one of our friendly staff today.”
To find out more about the interesting programs on offer at Healesville Living and Learning Centre phone 5962 5982.