Woodwork art showcased at Advance Edukos exhibition

Advance Edukos hosted its first First Thursday event of the year featuring woodwork pieces created by pupils in its after-school arts programme.

Themed Wooden Wonders, the exhibition included handmade wooden key rings and key holders designed and painted by the pupils using wood and acrylic paint.

The event, hosted on Thursday May 8 at the Rocklands civic centre, forms part of a twice-yearly series that allows children to display and sell their artwork. All proceeds from sales go directly to the pupils, helping them develop entrepreneurial skills and take pride in their creative efforts, said Advance Edukos Foundation administrator, Simmonita Brink.

Advance Edukos Foundation runs after-school programmes across different sites, with arts and culture as one of its core pillars, alongside academics and dance. 

Director Wendy Abrahams told the Plainsman that the aim this term was to introduce pupils to working with wood. “I remember having woodwork and needlework in school,” she said. “We want to expose children to different creative mediums, and needlework will be introduced in future terms.”

Parents, donors, and stakeholders attended the exhibition, which featured artworks that had already been submitted to an international online art competition. A further 22 pieces will also be submitted into an art competition at the Norval Foundation in Westlake.

Ms Brink highlighted the importance of the arts for pupils’ wellbeing. “The creative process is calming for them,” she said. “It supports mental and emotional development.”

Twin Tazzlyn Green, 15, from Mondale High, chose to depict Gustus von Lievenig, a scientist who contributed to agriculture and chemistry in her painting. Sister Tayo painted WWII figure Colonel Gail, known as the “Candy Bomber.” Both praised the programme’s supportive and therapeutic environment.

Seven-year-old Sonita Brink from Dennegeur Primary said she enjoyed making her artwork and described it as “cute and fun.” She added that art helps her manage anxiety.

Brian Strauss, 12, from Westville Primary, said he wants to be an artist. His galaxy-themed wooden key holder was inspired by a simple suggestion to experiment with circles, leading to a spontaneous depiction of space.

Emme Blake, 16, from Glendale High, has been part of the programme for four years. She created a calendar piece titled Midnight Rain using seashells and black paint. She said the programme, the leaders and peers all feel like a second family.

Parents and guardians interested in enrolling their children can follow Advance Edukos on social media for registration details.