Meet Tasmanian artist Kirsty Pol (@bush_school_kreatives) who’s passionate about creative learning at home, no matter where you live! She shares bush-inspired ideas for growing creators, from activity books to sensory crafts. Get some inspo for family creating below and find out more about Kirsty’s artist journey so far.
Do you have a fave memory or moment since you started sharing creative learning resources?
Other than watching them be utilised by my own children, it is so beautiful seeing them in the learning spaces of many other children around the world. Being part of a child's discovery of art is a wonderful thing.
What’s your creative process like? Do you prefer to plan it out or jump in and see how it unfolds?
I certainly enjoy jumping in to see where the creativity takes me or us (most of my creating is done with little people by my side), but I often have a rough idea in my head. It's like having a start and finish point on a map and going on a big unknown adventure in between.
What’s your spirit animal (i.e., what animal totally embodies your vibe)?
I would have to say a kookaburra. Not only are they my favourite bird, but they love a good laugh, as do I.
How do you make time for creative projects?
As a homeschooling mum to 5 children aged 6 and under, I am BUSY. The freedom we are so blessed to have here where we live, in the bush of rural Tasmania, means my children spend a lot of time outdoors, so I sometimes grab a paint brush or pencil and let my metaphorical cup be filled. Also having this season of motherhood with a tribe of little humans gives us plenty of time to create together.
What’s an educational art project you’ve been thinking about but haven’t got around to yet?
I am so eager to do a large abstract piece of art for our home together with my children. It would be an opportunity for them to collaborate as they utilise a variety of painting styles and techniques to make something unique, while also giving me the opportunity to educate them further on my forever-favourite subject: visual arts.
Aside from making and sharing your fabulous kids art ideas, what other hobbies do you enjoy?
My favourite hobby has never changed since I was a toddler and that is creating. Even if now it looks like making 3D cardboard crabs, designing an art unit or setting up a space for my children to enjoy, that is what brings me the most joy. I love to craft, to make and see things I envisioned come to life. I also love nature – the Australian bush and all it has to offer is just beautiful.
What’s something you’re proud of, that you don’t often get to talk about?
I am proud of my husband. I of course could say my kids, my creations or myself, but he is the cornerstone of our home. He encourages me to paint, even when I don't have the time.
How do you tackle art block? What gets you feeling creative again?
The art block is so real and it's the reason I literally have 10 or more projects going at once. Having a multitude of projects on the go does sound wild, but it's actually refreshing as I am never stuck in a rut. If I feel I cannot move forward on one project for a time, I feel eager to head back into another and I always eventually return to finish what I had once started.
Are you a sweet or savoury person?
I most definitely am a sweet person. My favourite food is ice cream and if you said I could skip dinner for a block of chocolate, I'd be half way through the block before you could hear my answer.
What supplies are your must-haves in every creative session?
My forever go-to is a beautiful pallet of watercolour paints and good set of paintbrushes. I love acrylics, pencils, etc. but having my watercolours and brushes on hand means I can bring colour out even on the busiest of days. A must have for children would be again watercolours but also good paint brushes and colourful set of good quality pastels.
See more about @bush_school_kreatives by checking out our gallery, where her art journey is featured! Stock up on textured craft supplies for the whole fam by checking out our Play range. If you feel ready to create, #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook. We’d love to see what you come up with!
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