Art Lab: Tote Tales

Free, bookings essential
Meet at the main entrance to the Gallery
Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the program
Duration: 4 hrs per day for 2 days
Ages: 13 – 25 years

Art labs are artist-led workshops connecting young audiences nationally with artists, artmaking and the national collection.

In this Art Lab, textile artist Helena Geiger, Gumbaynggirr people, will guide you through the process of creating your own batik tote bag.

Helena will teach how to apply hot wax to fabric and help you draw inspiration from your own dreams, experiences, beliefs and stories to create your own intricate designs. She will also share her approach to preparing reactive dyes to infuse your tote bag with vibrant colours.

Before you begin, you will have the opportunity to tour the Emily Kam Kngwarray exhibition with National Gallery staff. Learn about Emily Kam Kngwarray’s batiks and the significance of the anwerlarr (pencil yam) to the artist, as well as Kam, the word for the seeds and seedpods of the yam, after which she is named.

What to bring:

• All materials will be provided including latex gloves to assist with the dyeing process. If you are allergic to latex, please bring your own gloves.
• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for art-making. As we are using natural dyes and hot wax in this Art Lab, choose clothes that you won't mind if they get a bit colourful!
• Bring your own water bottle.

For more information about National Gallery Youth Programs visit our dedicated Youth Programs page.