Each year the students attending Portage Ukrainian Nursery School Inc create a variety of artworks, from watercolour self portraits to the parent project and more. Portage Ukrainian Nursery School is a government licensed Preschool program located in the west wing of the Trinity United Church at 15 Tupper Street South, in Portage la Prairie.

The art in this exhibition was created by 80 children, 2 to 6 years old and their families. The Nursery School’s creative art curriculum allows the children to use quality art materials to express themselves.

The artwork displayed is part of their 13th Annual Art Show & Auction.

Watercolour/Self Portraits

It is interesting to see the changes to a young child’s “people” drawings as they grow. From scribbles and dots through to distinct faces, bodies, limbs and detailed hair and clothing.

The children are given mirrors, plain paper and permanent markers and were tasked with drawing pictures of themselves. These drawing were cut out by staff and set aside. Watercolours, paint brushes and quality paper makes for vivid artwork. This activity is a favourite with the children as they enjoy watching the colours blend as they run into each other.

Once the paintings have dried, the children’s drawings were adhered to them making for a beautiful, personal piece of art.