Knowledge, skills, a skate deck and shirt printed with their own design is what youths will get out of an art program being run in Tanilba Bay from the end of this month.
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The free four week art program for Indigenous youth will be led by Worimi artist Jason Russell from Koori Colours Art Gallery, supported by Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre.
"There's not much for young people to do on the Tilligerry Peninsula," Mr Russell said.
"An art program like this is a good way to get kids who otherwise might not talk to each other to meet, have a yarn, learn some new skills and maybe find a new hobby out of it."
The program has been made possible through a $5000 AGL grant secured by the neighbourhood centre.
It will kick off on April 26 and run on a Monday and Wednesday at Centre For Hope's youth centre, The Drop, in Coweambah Way, between 3.45pm and 4.45pm until May 19.
The program is for Indigenous youths aged from upper primary school (years 5 and 6) and high school.
Participants do not need to be skilled in art to take part.
Mr Russell, from Tanilba Bay, will teach youths how to create an Indigenous artwork - whether it is dot painting, lettering or more intricate designs.
More importantly, he will teach participants the symbols used throughout Worimi art and the stories they tell.
"By the end of the program they'll be able to recognise the symbols for family, for community, and the way they're used in art to tell stories," Mr Russell said.
"They'll be able to tell their own stories through what they learn. If anything though, we hope they [participants] have a go, have some fun, gain some confidence and make some new friends.
"The program is for all kids of all skill levels. Come and paint some deadly art designs on a shirt and skateboard with your mob."
Designs created by art program attendees will be screen printed onto shirts and a skate deck, which they keep.
Spaces are limited and bookings to take part in the program are essential.
To secure a space phone the neighbourhood centre on 4984 6220.
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Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
