The Mindful Mark
A Sustainable Artist-in-Residency Program by Little Peg
Art is a quiet place for a busy mind. In this residency, I guide children through the practice of mindfulness using the tactile beauty of the visual arts. Designed to support the primary wellbeing curriculum, this program encourages students to slow down, observe, and create. It’s more than an art lesson; it’s about equipping every child with creative strategies to navigate their world with resilience and a sense of calm.
At a Glance:
Information for Teachers
Suitable for PP - 6
Curriculum Alignment: Directly bridges WA (SCSA) Health & Physical Education (Wellbeing) and Visual Arts curriculum.
Sustainability Focus: Incorporates the Sustainability cross-curriculum priority by using non-traditional tools and foraged materials.
Technical Art Skills: High-level instruction in mark-making, colour, and mixed-media layering to create meaningful artworks.
Lasting Resources: Every student receives bespoke desk resources (such as "pocket-sized" mindful line-work templates) to support self-regulation in the classroom.
Structure: A gentle 4-week block (one session per week) designed to fit seamlessly into the Perth school rhythm.
How It Works
With an extensive background as an artist and teacher, and as a qualified art therapist, I bring a unique, informed perspective to children’s wellbeing. I am passionate about supporting young people as they explore the connection between mind and body through the arts. I believe creativity offers a gentle yet powerful language, allowing children to use image and mark-making to express big feelings that they may not yet have the words for.
This residency is about creating calm, supportive spaces where mindfulness is woven into the creative process. Through storytelling, simple materials, and seasonal inspiration, I work alongside schools to help children build their emotional toolkit and find a deep sense of belonging. Together, we nurture a form of wellbeing that is as vibrant and lasting as the art they create.
I offer a limited number of Artist Residencies within the Perth area, thoughtfully structured to integrate seamlessly with the rhythm of the school day.
Typically delivered as a gentle 4-week block with one session per week, each residency is bespoke. I work closely with you to tailor the experience to your students' specific needs, focusing on mindfulness, environmental connection, and emotional expression through high-quality visual art.
If you would like to explore how this program can support your school or wellness centre, I invite you to a brief video or face-to-face meeting. Let’s discuss how we can nurture your community’s wellbeing in a way that feels authentic and right for your setting.
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During this season of life, with a little one at home, I’m offering this residency opportunity to Perth-based schools and wellbeing centres.
Sessions are designed to fit gently around the school day, typically running from 10am–1pm one day a week, across a 4-week block.
While I’m currently focusing on my local community, I hope to open this offering more widely in the future as life allows.
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Residencies are best suited to school-aged children, and I can tailor sessions to specific year levels or wellbeing groups as needed.
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Yes! I’m happy to provide a session overview and work with teachers to ensure the program aligns with your school’s or classes’ specific WA curriculum outcomes.
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Yes, I hold a current Working With Children Check and am a registered primary school teacher with TRBWA. I’m happy to provide these details upon request.
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With permission, I’d love to take a few photos during the sessions to document the process and celebrate the children’s work. I am also a professional photographer so will always keep faces out of images or blur them if needed, and ensure any sharing follows your school’s media policy.
Keep ConnectedI wish to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land I live, work, and create, the Whadjuk Noongar people, Elders past, present and future. I am inspired by their art, stories and respect their continued connection to country.
Copyright 2025 Carolyn Sainsbury, Artist.
