Last week, over 100 keen educators from schools, universities and other settings gathered at the NGV to hear the very latest update on Melbourne Now. It was a fantastic evening – all abuzz!
We are now imagining Melbourne designers and artists furiously busy in studios throughout the city working on projects that will fill 8000 square meters of exhibition space.
The ambitious scope and range of what Melbourne Now will offer led to a number of questions:
How much time would you need to best see the exhibitions with students?
As much as you have! We understand that schools often have limited time, but try to allow at least half a day at the Gallery. Include some structured activity as well as opportunity for some independent exploration.
Do you recommend we plan to go to both NGV International and NGV Australia on one day?
One venue each day would be best, especially if you have limited time or younger students. If you can, plan multiple visits!
Can you suggest a focus for our visit?
Inspired by some of the key curatorial themes in the exhibition NGV Educators have identified a number of starting points and pathways for planning a visit. These are the basis of our educator led Zoom programs and the online resources for teachers. Other programs and resources will be provided for specific aspects of the curriculum including VCE Art, Studio Arts, Visual Communication Design and Product Design and Technology.
How do educators find out about the exhibition before we come?
NGV Schools will be offering regular free Melbourne Now orientation and highlight webinars to help plan and introduce the exhibition. There are also a number of onsite professional learning programs on offer, including a summer school for teachers.
Information about programs is available from the website and from the NGV Schools Melbourne Now program poster which will be in all Victorian schools by the beginning of Term 4. Program updates and resources, and the Melbourne Now App will be available on the NGV website closer to the opening of the exhibition. Subscribe to the NGV Schools e-News, or follow #NGVSchools on Twitter to stay informed of the latest developments.
What hands on, or participatory opportunities will there be for our students?
NGV Schools has developed a range of art making, design and writing workshops to engage and inspire students of all year levels. The exhibition spaces will also offer many sensory, immersive and participatory experiences that will provide myriad opportunities for playful, creative and active engagement with contemporary art and design.
A series of artist and designers forums for senior students is planned for 2014.
I have an idea I would like to discuss….
NGV Educators welcome the opportunity to work with teachers to plan a unique program that supports the specific needs of particular groups.
Great news about the access grant. Can you tell us more?
We are very excited to have secured philanthropic support for a Melbourne Now Access program that will enable targeted schools otherwise not able to visit the Gallery, to participate in Melbourne Now.