This article explores the nexus between arts-based research, theory, practice, and policy. It does so through reference to a longitudinal study of ArtPlay, a unique Australian community arts center that offers artist-led workshops involving young people aged 3-13 years. The ethnographic and action research study investigated how children responded…

This paper seeks to explore creative practice in an Australian country town, and in so doing, to unsettle market-orientated interpretations of creativity that privilege the urban. Instead of focusing on creative practice as a means to develop industries, we focus on how creativity is a means to establish a cooperative gallery space that helps to…

Discusses the Australian "Share the Joy" project which promotes art appreciation experiences for young children and adults in a gallery setting. Describes and reflects on the reactions of children to original art works in museums and examines the responses of children and parents to a prepared studio environment. (GEA)

Australian children from an urban area near Sydney used the creative arts to promote harmony among their diverse cultures including sizable immigrant populations from the Middle East, Asia, and other traditions. The project enabled children to develop leadership and artistic skills, and examine how their backgrounds influence their view of the…