Young art talent makes a sea-inspired splash

Immersive art space Creatures of the Deep is open as a drop-in parent-facilitated workshop for children.

Open every week day at Vancouver Art Centre, the underwater-themed zone encourages an unstructured creative play approach to art.

Centre co-ordinator Amber Perryman said not only did children have the chance to get hands-on and messy, but it allowed creativity to grow.

“Creativity is fundamental to human existence and experience,” she said.

“Studies have shown that supporting young people’s abilities to think and act creatively encourages problem-solving ability, enhanced thinking skills and innovation.

“Which benefits them whatever area of industry they choose to work in, irrespective of whether that child develops an artistic skill or pursues artistic hobbies.”

Ms Perryman said some of the artwork had been jointly created by young people around town.

“Artist Leanne White, along with the team at the arts centre, developed and installed the space.

“Some of the components, such as the crochet jellyfish, were hired from contemporary artists.

“But the kayak creature and wall murals were created here.”

It runs with Spaced 2: Future Recall until September 2 and draws connections to the local whale season.