An eight-week free art and wellbeing program for children aged 9–12 experiencing mild anxiety, held at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
Saturday 30 January 2027
to Saturday 20 March 2027
10:30am - 12:30pm
Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Free
This unique program offers children experiencing mild anxiety a calming and creative space to explore art and express themselves. Over eight consecutive Saturdays, participants will engage with artworks in a supportive environment designed to build self-confidence and resilience.
Children will enjoy mindful viewing, group reflection, and open-ended art-making activities that encourage imagination and emotional connection. Parents or caregivers participate alongside their children in parallel wellbeing sessions, fostering shared experiences and support.
All materials and morning tea are provided, ensuring families can focus fully on the enriching experience without any extra preparation.
Culture Dose for Kids runs for eight weeks, every Saturday from 10:30 to 12:30. Each session includes:
- Mindful viewing of selected artworks
- Group reflection and discussion
- Morning tea
- Process-based art-making
- Time for sharing or quiet observation
The program is free and specifically designed for children aged 9 to 12 who experience mild anxiety or thrive in quieter, supportive environments. Parents and caregivers attend sessions simultaneously to engage in wellbeing activities.
Participation is limited to 25 families, and consistent attendance is encouraged to maximize benefits. The program is led by experienced Art Gallery facilitators in collaboration with the Black Dog Institute.
Sessions take place onsite at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, primarily in the Learning Studio within the Naala Badu building and various gallery spaces. The venue is accessible and welcoming to children with diverse needs.
Families are encouraged to notify the organizers of any access requirements or dietary needs during registration to ensure appropriate support and accommodations.
The Art Gallery is located at Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney NSW 2000, with easy access via public transport and nearby parking options.
This program is designed for children and their parents or caregivers to attend together; drop-offs without adults are not permitted. More than one caregiver can attend if needed, with prior notice.
Children are never pressured to speak or share; they can respond in ways that feel comfortable, including drawing or quiet observation. Siblings or friends who are not enrolled cannot attend sessions.
Assistance animals are welcome, but pets are not allowed in the gallery. If a session is missed, families should notify the organizers in advance.
Culture Dose for Kids is free for all selected participants, generously funded by the Art Gallery of NSW. Registrations open well in advance, with limited places available.
Applications are submitted online, and early registration is recommended due to high demand. After registration closes, families will be contacted for a brief conversation to ensure the program suits their needs.
Commitment to attend all eight sessions is important to gain the full benefit of the program. Ongoing opportunities are available for alumni families.
