Junior artists get masterclass in sculpture thanks to Alcoa

Budding artists created their own sculptures during free school holiday workshops in Mandurah made possible by Alcoa.

(Left) Artist Andrea Vinkovic and Sculpture by the Sea Educator Demelza Wheatcroft (right), with children of Alcoa employees who took part in Sculpture by the Sea workshops in Mandurah last week.

About 20 children, who have family members working at Alcoa, took part in the two workshops. The events form part of Alcoa’s long running partnership with the annual Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in Cottesloe.

Artist Andrea Vinkovic, whose sculpture ‘Seed’ was on display at this year’s Cottesloe exhibition, conducted the workshops, guiding the children through the process of making their very own three-dimensional artworks using materials including aluminium wire and clay.

Alcoa employee Raelene Jones, grandmother to seven-year-old Claire Harrison from Dawesville, said the workshops were a fun and unique opportunity for both the children and adults participating.

“It is wonderful that my grandchildren have the opportunity to take part in this Alcoa sponsored school holiday program,” Raelene said. “I love that I get to spend time with them taking part in an activity that is a unique experience and fun for us all.”

Riley Holland (6), from Halls Head, whose mum works at the Alcoa Regional Office in Pinjarra, enjoyed the hands-on experience the workshop had to offer. “I got to make all sorts of creations,” Riley said. “I loved getting my hands messy and working with the clay. My favourite creation was my sitting person.”

Alcoa has supported Sculpture by the Sea Cottesloe since its inception 14 years ago and will again be a key partner in the 15th exhibition set for 1-18 March next year. Alcoa’s support ensures children get involved in the popular event and in art.

The Alcoa School Program – which includes schools from the Peel, Kwinana and WaroonaHarvey areas – has allowed more than 25,000 students to visit the Cottesloe event and participate in artist workshops over the last 14 years.

Additional workshops are held annually for the children and grandchildren of Alcoa employees both in Cottesloe during the event and in Mandurah during school holidays. Alcoa’s support also encourages artists to use aluminium, the company’s flagship product, in their sculptures.

Alcoa operates bauxite mines and alumina smelters in Western Australia and has an aluminium smelter in Victoria. The company employees more than 4,275 people across its Australian operations and about 3,750 in Western Australia. It made more than $4 million in community contributions during 2017.

ENDS

Media contact

Cheri Tiglias, Corporate Affairs Officer, 0450 393 651, cheri.tiglias@alcoa.com.au