(EDIT FEB. 2021: MCA’s ArtPlay program is currently running online due to Covid-19. Full details on the MCA website.)
Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) is one of our favorite go-to destinations. On a weekend, we may just pop in to have a look around at the exhibitions, and even as a toddler, our Mini-artsplorer always found plenty to pique her interest, even if she’s years away from understanding the more mature social and political themes of much of the work.
The MCA also offers a regular program of excellent activities for children and families, most at low cost or for just a donation. When she was around 2, I first took Mini to ARTplay at the MCA (Sydney), and it was a favorite activity. Now baby sister is getting in on the action, still loving this creative play environment.
ARTplay is an energetic drop-in playgroup for ages 0 – 5, held on Wednesday mornings during school term at the Creative Studios on Level 3.
In the space, kids find a number of areas with materials that welcome them to invent, build, and explore. Felt shapes may be turned into any sort of masterpiece on the wall. Flowy pieces of fabric become everything from dress up objects to dancing props. Grimms rainbows and blocks are out for free play. Books with an art theme are in a cozy corner. There are always different set ups from one week to the next.
Off to the side, is a special room with a theme that changes periodically. We’ve laughed along with video installations, brushed a giant dog sculpture, and dressed like koalas.
Story time and singing sessions are also offered during the morning.
We are always greeted with enthusiasm, and welcomed so warmly by the kind staff. They get into playing with the kids, without ever “telling” them what to do with the open ended materials, and I always find them to be completely respectful of the temperament and abilities of under 5 age group.
The number of attendees seems to ebb and flow at ARTplay. Some weeks it can be quite crowded, while others it’s much smaller. If you’re able, try to arrive by the 10a.m. opening, if your child may find a crowd overwhelming, especially on his or her first encounter with the new space. (Edit: as of November 2019, ArtPlay now has 2 session times – from 10a.m. – 11a.m. and from 11a.m. – 12p.m. Full details below).
If you have Wednesday mornings free with a young child, ARTplay at the MCA Sydney is a special place for kids to play, engage with interesting aesthetics, and use their imaginations.
If you go:
Museum of Contemporary Art
140 George Street, The Rocks
ARTplay runs Wednesdays during school term (check website for exact dates and updated information)
10a.m. – 12p.m. (2 sessions)
Drop in
Recommended for children ages 0 – 5 and their carers
As of November 2019, Artplay has a new ticketing system. Info as follows:
Join us on Wednesdays during the school term and get ready to PLAY as you and your tot discover an interactive artwork you can touch!
Have fun exploring a range of exhibition-related games and toys, settle into the story corner, read a book and join in at music time for a sing along.
Perfect for ages 0–5 years.
Two ticketed entry times available at 10am and 11am. Limited doors sales on the day, advanced booking highly recommended.
Ticket price: $7 + booking fee per family
Free entry for MCA Family Members
Location:
NCCL: Level 3
Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
For more Sydney arts activities for kids, visit the Artsplorers calendar of events.
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