Why Art Classes?
Discover Endless Possibilities with Elements of Carly
Extracurricular art classes offer numerous benefits for children, enriching their personal, social, and cognitive development. These classes provide a creative outlet where children can express their thoughts, emotions, and ideas, helping them build self-confidence and emotional resilience.
Engaging in art also enhances fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, as children work with various materials and tools.
Cognitively, art encourages problem-solving and critical thinking. Through the creative process, children learn to approach challenges with innovation and flexibility, fostering their ability to think outside the box. Art also enhances focus and patience, as projects often require sustained attention and dedication to complete.
Socially, group art activities promote collaboration and communication. Children learn to share ideas, give and receive feedback, and work together toward a common goal. These experiences help them develop empathy and improve their social interactions.
In addition, art can complement academic learning by boosting visual-spatial skills, enhancing understanding in subjects like math and science, and improving overall academic performance.
Current Art Classes
Primary Aged Art Groups
Secondary Aged Art Groups
Secondary Aged Art Groups
Primary group classes (all ages): Tues or Wed, evenings 4:00pm-5:30pm. $360* for a 12 week term ($30 week). Places limited, waiting lists may apply. All materials and a healthy snack provided.
Secondary Aged Art Groups
Secondary Aged Art Groups
Secondary Aged Art Groups
Secondary/teen group classes (all ages): Friday evenings 4:00pm-5:30pm $360* for a 12 week term ($30 week). Places limited, waiting lists may apply. All materials and a healthy snack provided.
Beginner Adult Art Groups
Secondary Aged Art Groups
Beginner Adult Art Groups
Beginner Adult/Social groups: Weekday mornings 10:00am - 11:30am, subject to demand and availability. $420 for a 12 week term ($35 week). Places limited, waiting lists may apply. All materials, tea/coffee and healthy snacks provided.
Private Classes
Travelling Art Cart
Beginner Adult Art Groups
One on one and small groups by private appointment only, price upon request. Please contact me for further information. Places limited, waiting lists may apply.
NDIS Participants
Travelling Art Cart
Travelling Art Cart
NDIS participants - please contact me for further information. Places limited, waiting lists may apply.
Travelling Art Cart
Travelling Art Cart
Travelling Art Cart
The Art Cart - I come to you! In-home art classes running throughout the week, please contact me for further information. Private tuition and traveling fees apply. Places limited, waiting lists may apply.
School Holiday Workshops
School Holiday Workshops
School Holiday Workshops
COMING SOON!
Private Art Parties
School Holiday Workshops
School Holiday Workshops
COMING SOON!
School Holiday Workshops
*Please note: fees may vary depending on the length of the school term. All fees must be paid, in full, before your child’s first class. Deposits & fees are paid by Internet transfer. Please reach out via e-mail should you have any concerns at all.
The Studio
Elements of Carly Private Home Studio
At Elements of Carly, classes are held at my private residence in the patio out back, surrounded by green trees and colourful inspiring flowers. Entry via side gate. There are blinds for inclement weather, an outdoor heater for cooler months and ceiling fan for warmer weather. Toilet facilities in the main house and a large kitchen table should we need to craft indoors.
All About Carly
My Creative Journey
Hi, I’m Carly Ford and welcome to Elements of Carly. My creative journey began when I was very little, exploring dance, acting, and singing. I enjoyed writing stories, poetry and lyrics, made my own films on my parents' bulky Panasonic camcorder, and have adored drawing and art for as long as I can remember. After focusing on Studio Arts and Media Studies in VCE, I went on to La Trobe University to complete a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Drama, Theatre and Media Studies. From there I wanted to share my passion for the arts by undertaking a Post-graduate Diploma in Secondary Education. Throughout my 18 year career as a Specialist teacher, I have taught Drama, Theatre, Media Studies, Music, Dance and Visual Arts. I directed musicals and took part in production areas such as lighting, set, props and costume design and construction, backstage crew, hair and make-up. After a refreshing career change to primary Visual Arts teaching, I found a real passion for helping children to connect with and express their feelings through art. I found a way to empower, challenge, engage and motivate my younger students, particularly those who had lost confidence in other subject areas. As a mother of three, including an autistic daughter, I know the challenges that come with emotional regulation, socialisation and expression. I’m hoping that I can further my ability to connect with and inspire my students by working with them outside of the school environment. I look forward to working with your young people and am grateful for your interest and support.