BMA Kidspace brings back crafty cooperative learning in 2022

Published: 18 Mar 2022

Toddlers and art go together like paper and glue.

And that’s why, for one day a month, Artspace Mackay is transformed into BMA Kidspace and creativity, music and laughter reign supreme.

Deputy Mayor Karen May said this popular toddler’s program gave children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of cooperative learning.

“The program includes free artist-run workshops from 10am to 2pm and live musical entertainment for kids from noon to 1pm,” Cr May said.

“This year our BMA Kidspace team includes musician Kathleen Campbell and local tutors and artists Rosemary Payne, Pam Hutley and Traci Lietzke,” she said.

“Due to COVID, we had to kick February’s program off online with take-home packs, but everything is back to normal at the gallery from Tuesday, March 22.”

Cr May said BMA Kidspace wouldn’t be possible without the longstanding support of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance.

Linda Murry, general manager of BMA’s Hay Point Coal Terminal said BMA Kidspace was a flagship partnership with council and an important activity to help young families connect in the Mackay community.

“We continually look beyond our own operations for opportunities to contribute to the local communities where our employees live and work, and BMA Kidspace is an opportunity for us to help foster a love of the arts in some of our youngest community members,” Ms Murry said.

“BMA is incredibly proud of our ability to support this grassroots program over the years, and we look forward to seeing all the smiling faces, art creations and proud parents through 2022,” she said.

BMA Kidspace will be held once a month at Artspace Mackay on the following dates: March 22, April 26, May 24, June 21, July 19, August 16, September 13, October 18, November 15 and December 6.

Parents are encouraged to follow Artspace Mackay’s website and Facebook page for any updates around this crafty, fun-filled program.