Territories

Songbox

No. of participants: 132 children & 106 parents/grandparents
Partners: Songbox
This group is self funded.

Artist: Thea Jacob

There were two blocks of 7 sessionsin 2008 ; the first inspired by the Stubbs & Whistlejacket in York exhibition and the second by Keiko Mukaide’s installation, Memory of Place at York St. Mary’s.  Each session was self contained and attended by different families.  Songs and games were used to assist the children in looking at the art and to introduce some of the key concepts in the exhibition and installation.

'We had such a lovely time at the gallery. They made us feel so welcome.... It was great to have our own guide - I don't ever usually pluck up the courage to ask the staff about the pictures, but I would now, as they had so much extra to add.'  - Hudda (parent)

'Matthew, as a lively 21/2 year old, did get a bit distracted and run around a little more than I might have liked... But he asked if we could go back to the gallery and sat happily just gazing at the “Whistlejacket” picture... Now he just keeps asking when we can go again!'  - Liz (parent)

'I really, really want to go back.' - Ellie (child)

'There was so much encouragement and support I felt able to include a craft activity in the sessions at St. Mary’s, which is something I’ve never tried before.' – Thea (artist)

In 2009, Song Box ran sessions inspired by the St Ives exhibition and Emma Bigg's & Matthew Collings installation Five Sisters at York St Mary's.  Thea has gone on to work successfully with early years groups at St Lawrence's Children's Centre and with teenage parents at Space 109.

Song Box are currently working with the gallery to develop a new activity for young children and their families to engage with on visits to the gallery. Building Landscapes will provide wooden blocks in bright colours and interesting shapes with which children can create their own versions of landscapes on display in the gallery.