Explore the Junior Art Trail (and please do not kick the ball art)

In September, I took my daughter and son to Wollongong Art Gallery's Junior Art Trail.

The exhibition focus was on Round, with every artwork having the theme of 'round'. From balls to circles to spheres, we covered it all.

I have always been so nervous going into art galleries with kids. Especially after a recent experience where two security guards followed us around the entire museum, watching our every move. Way to make us feel welcome!

Well, this was anything but. This experience was a fantastic introduction to the world of art for my little ones.

The session started with all the kids gathering in the foyer. We marked our names off and the kids received name tags and were invited to start colouring in on the ground. The kids were encouraged to enjoy the art with their eyes and without touch. A concept quickly forgotten by my two-year-old who impulsively kicked one of the ball installations. Thankfully, the staff were very patient and non-judgemental about my wild one's behaviour.

The hour flew past. The Art Gallery crew had curated several engaging and immersive art experiences based on a few pieces around the room. Each activity was presented in quick succession to keep the little ones amused.

First the kids were asked to identify the materials used in an artwork and then the shapes inside another and how to stack them in order. We then had our turn at recreating the ball installation using play dough. They also learned about synesthesia and how to pronounce it – a very cute exercise, enjoyed by the parents.

And finally, the kids sat in bean bags to view video art, which almost sent me to sleep.

Other than trying to stop the kids from touching the artwork and guiding them through the activities, I just sat back and relaxed. My kids loved it so much they wanted to view the rest of the art gallery.

We will definitely be going back again for the next exhibition.

Fast facts

Tickets: via EventBrite.

Where: Wollongong Art Gallery, 46 Burelli Street, Wollongong, NSW 2500

When: Second Friday of every month, from 10am to 11am

Bookings essential: Places limited to 12 children aged 3 to 5. Parents and guardians are required to attend however, you do not need to book a spot for yourself.

Schedule: The Junior Art Trail program will remain the same until there is an exhibition changeover. The schedule is below:

• Friday, 13 October – Jacky Redgate: Hypnagogia with Mirrors. New and Old Works, 1986 - 2023
• Friday, 10 November – Jacky Redgate: Hypnagogia with Mirrors. New and Old Works, 1986 - 2023
• Friday, 8 December – Ian Gentle: Horny Sticks and Whispering Lines / Gentle Response