Discover the internationally acclaimed Mosaic of Marks, Words and Materials exhibition, brought to Australia by REAIE. This engaging art exhibition makes visible the creative processes of young children, inviting families to witness drawing, mark-making and narration as languages of learning in everyday practice.
What to Expect
Step into a warm, family-friendly exhibition that celebrates children's creativity and invites hands-on curiosity. The displays focus on processes rather than finished products, and the tone is welcoming for parents and children exploring together.
- Explore materials and graphic tools in sensory-rich ways
- Reflect on pedagogical perspectives linked to Reggio Emilia research
- Encounter inspiring contexts that honour children's multiple expressive languages
The interactive atelier sessions are designed for parents and children to participate together. Sessions are supported by volunteers and are best suited to families with school-aged children who enjoy tactile, creative experiences. Bookings are essential to manage capacity and ensure a relaxed visit.
Activity Details
This touring exhibition will appear in Sydney (Marrickville Library) from 2026-08-30 to 2026-09-22 and in Rockhampton (Central Queensland University) from 2026-10-10 to 2026-10-26. Each season includes the free exhibition and scheduled interactive atelier sessions.
The exhibition is free to attend but sessions are supported by volunteers and require bookings. Professional learning workshops run alongside the exhibition and atelier experiences; these workshops are led by educators experienced with Reggio Children and may require separate registration and fees.
Expect a mix of exhibit viewing, reflective conversation prompts, and practical, hands-on atelier activities that model how drawing and narration support children's meaning-making. The program is ideal for families, early childhood educators, and community members interested in children's learning and creativity.
Location and Access
The Sydney season partners with Marrickville Library and the Rockhampton season partners with Central Queensland University; specific venue rooms and session times will be provided when you book. The exhibition is presented in accessible, public-facing spaces suitable for families and community participation.
Public transport and local parking typically serve both library and university venues, and each venue is used to hosting family visits and school groups. If you have accessibility needs or require specific arrival information, request details when booking to ensure a comfortable visit.
Sessions are staggered throughout the day to accommodate school-aged children and parents; please check your booking confirmation for exact times and any special instructions on arrival, parking or entry to the exhibition spaces.
Important Information
The exhibition is free to view but bookings are essential as atelier sessions have limited capacity and are supported by volunteers. Arrive a few minutes early to manage check-in with children and to settle into the space without stress.
Professional learning workshops are offered alongside the exhibition and are aimed at educators and interested parents; these sessions may have separate fees and require pre-registration. If you are attending with a school group or larger family group, contact the organisers in advance to discuss availability and support.
Children should be supervised at all times and encouraged to engage with materials respectfully; the exhibition celebrates the hundred languages of children, emphasising process-focused engagement rather than strict rules. Bring comfortable clothes for hands-on activities and an openness to exploring drawing, mark-making and storytelling together.
Booking and Prices
This is a free exhibition and atelier program for families, but you must book sessions in advance to secure a place. Bookings help organisers manage volunteer support and ensure a calm, meaningful experience for every family.
To join the interest list, register for sessions, or find professional learning workshop details, visit the Reggio Emilia Australia Information Exchange website or contact the organisers through REAIE channels. Workshop fees, if applicable, will be listed alongside workshop descriptions and booking information.
If you have questions about availability, accessibility, or group bookings, contact REAIE directly when registering. Keep an eye on session details for exact times, venue rooms and any materials parents should bring for atelier participation.