Waterlily Art & Mentoring Program.

What is the Waterlily Art & Mentoring Program?

The Waterlily Art & Mentoring Program is a 10-week initiative designed to inspire creativity, foster cultural connection, and support emotional growth among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth. Participants work with First Nations artists who mentor and guide them through a culturally enriching journey, combining art, storytelling, and personal development.

Who Can Participate?

The program is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students seeking to strengthen their cultural identity and creative expression.

What Do Participants Learn?

Participants gain both practical and theoretical knowledge in:

Traditional and contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural arts.

Storytelling techniques that reflect personal and cultural identity.

Cultural protocols, building an authentic connection to family, country, and kinship.

Skills for planning, preparing, and presenting meaningful works of art.

How is the Program Delivered?

The program is delivered through weekly school-based sessions over a school term (10 weeks). These sessions provide consistent mentorship to nurture growth and foster positive relationships.

Why is this Program Important?

Indigenous youth often face challenges of cultural disconnection, which can impact their self-esteem and sense of belonging. This program:

Creates a culturally safe space for participants to explore and express their identity.

Offers positive role models through First Nations mentors.

Utilises art as a therapeutic tool for healing and connection.

Builds confidence, creativity, and cultural pride, empowering participants to embrace their heritage and open doors for future opportunities.

NSW Curriculum Alignment

The Waterlily Art & Mentoring Program aligns with key learning areas, including:

1. Creative Arts

• Visual Arts (VAS3.1 & VAS3.4): Practical skills in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and storytelling through art.

2. Personal Development, Health, and Physical Education (PDHPE)

• Emotional Well-being (PD3-6): Art for healing, identity exploration, and self-esteem building.

• Social Skills and Mentorship (PD3-9): Builds relationships and problem-solving skills.

3. Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE)

• Cultural Understanding (HT3-1 & HT3-2): Exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, country, and kinship.

• History & Geography (HT3-3 & GE3-2): Tracing family heritage and connecting to land and place.

4. English

• Writing & Representing (EN3-2A): Storytelling and narrative development.

• Speaking & Listening (EN3-1A): Cultural and artistic discussions.

Learning Outcomes

Practical and theoretical knowledge of traditional and contemporary cultural arts.

Skills to engage in independent artistic practice while honoring cultural protocols.

Confidence in creating culturally significant works that reflect personal and cultural identity.

A strong foundation for future studies in the arts and expanded career opportunities.

Program Benefits

Cultural Connection: Strengthening identity, family, and kinship ties through art.

Therapeutic Healing: Art as a tool for self-esteem, cultural pride, and emotional growth.

Guided Mentorship: Supportive relationships with mentors who listen, guide, and inspire.

Positive Learning Environment: A nurturing space to enhance creativity and a love for learning.

Program Outcomes

Participants gain the confidence to create culturally significant art that reflects their heritage.

Enhanced artistic skills and cultural knowledge, paving the way for further education and career prospects.

Stronger connections to culture, community, and self through the power of storytelling and art.