Summer is an extremely distant memory, so we thought we’d capture a bit of sunshine as we reflect on the fabulous ‘Oops Wow Messy Art on Hive Beach’ which the JTYAF supported last year.

We were delighted to support this lovely project which encouraged children to use their imaginations and simple materials to have great fun outdoors. They used the wind, making streamers that they painted and played with, making dances, going on processions. They also played with gravity, clay, sticks, and water. They became decorator crabs, played games, and made a palace from a box for their favourite toy. Endless possibilities with simple materials and imagination.

“
Mabel loved the sessions you ran on the beach. The surroundings were perfect, teaching us to make art using just what is around you. Mabel still talks about it and plays creatively inspired by your sessions, especially when we visit the beach. Some of her pictures are on the wall and we love them. Her stick family are living happily in the front garden!
”

— Parent from toddler art session

“
My family and I loved the oops wow messy art event on Hive Beach . It introduced our twin girls to new ways to think about and experiment with art. I think the location was an essential part of that because it really helped the session to feel relaxed, took the pressure away and was an environment that my daughters know well and enjoy. The session gave us ideas of things to do next time we are at the beach, as well as at home. The event had a really lovely feel with everyone sharing their art works and chatting about them together. ”

— HB parent & toddler session.

A total of 300 children and parents took part from 137 families!

Event organiser, Jo Burlington explained:

I am extremely grateful to have been supported by the JTYAF to create the opportunity for so many families to work in this creative exploratory way in such a beautiful location.