08 June 2023
A free exhibition of art and design by children aged from one to five years old will open at the Link
Gallery at Jersey Museum today, Thursday 8 June. The exhibition has been organised by the
Childcare and Early Years Service (CEYS) within the department for Children, Young People,
Education and Skills (CYPES), in collaboration with early years providers.
Children were provided with the prompt Jersey – Our Beautiful Island, and invited to respond in a
variety of media. The prompt was chosen to encourage and promote children’s curiosity about the
natural world, and their engagement with it.
Children created the work while at nursery, with their childminder, or at school. The works in the
exhibit include water colour paintings, wax pastels, ink, collage, clay and woodwork pieces.
As part of the exhibit, visitors can also watch a short film which has been produced by Little River
Pictures which showcases the creative process, and the importance of self-expression through art,
imagination and play.
Julie McAllister, Early Years Advisory Teacher, said: “This exhibition is a wonderful celebration of the
importance of expressive arts and design in early years. Expressive arts – including drawing,
painting, singing and music – fosters critical thinking and experimentation.
“It also gives children a chance to improvise, collaborate and interact: these are crucial skills that we
all need throughout our lives.”
Assistant Minister for Children and Education, Deputy Louise Doublet, said: “This exhibition is a
testament to the creativity and curiosity of the children who have taken part. It helps us see the
Island through the eyes of our children and encourages us to notice the small details in our natural
environment.
“I’d like to thank all our colleagues in the early years sector who have supported this exhibition by
offering their time, expertise and support. Thanks as well to Jersey Heritage for their support in
hosting the exhibition.”
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