Residents, artists, and distinguished guests gathered at Bayside Gallery earlier today, for the unveiling of The children's sensorium: art, play and mindfulness and Future past: recent additions to the Bayside City Council Art and Heritage Collection.
Each element of the sensorium, held in partnership with RMIT Culture, has been thoughtfully curated to activate children's curiosity. Through light, colour, touch, sound, and smell, children are encouraged to immerse themselves in a world where every sense is awakened.
The installations invite exploration, play, and reflection, allowing visitors to embark on a journey through their senses - a journey that connects them to local Country and the rich landscape within themselves.
Bayside Deputy Mayor, Cr Debbie Taylor-Haynes, said the exhibition was an example of Council's ongoing commitment to the arts and the important role it plays within the community.
"We are committed to nurturing connection in our community and celebrating the stories that bring us closer together," said Cr Taylor-Haynes.
"The children's sensorium is an incredible space that encourages children to explore, discover and dream."
The sensorium is more than just fun - it's transformative. As children explore, they're gently guided toward strategies and techniques that support resilience and wellbeing. In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, these lessons are vital. Through interactive play, children learn how to identify and express their feelings, regulate their emotions, and discover inner resources that'll sustain them in the face of challenges.
In addition to The children's sensorium, Council celebrated the unveiling of Future past, a second major exhibition presenting a curated selection of artworks recently acquired for the Bayside City Council Art and Heritage Collection.
The Collection is a significant cultural asset that highlights the importance of art and artists within Bayside, fostering both community engagement and an appreciation of shared heritage.
"By collecting, preserving, and exhibiting works of outstanding quality, we affirm our belief that the arts are essential to a thriving, inclusive and resilient community," said Cr Taylor-Haynes.
Future past features work by a distinguished group of artists, including Asher Bilu, Lynne Boyd, Dean Bowen, Mark Forbes, Ellen José, Kent Morris, David Ralph, Tai Snaith, Louise Tate, Jonathan Walker, and Michelle Zuccolo.
Several of the works unveiled in Future past were generously donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program, a testament to the spirit of collaboration and generosity that characterises Bayside's cultural landscape.
For those who missed the official opening, both exhibitions will remain on display at Bayside Gallery until Sunday 19 October, offering ongoing opportunities for discovery, connection, and inspiration.
