Made @ The Place Is Back

Two More Animal-Inspired Creative Workshops! 

We’re thrilled to announce that Made @ The Place is EXTENDING thanks to the incredible support of the NSW Government and the amazing demand from our community!


Over the past two years, Made @ The Place has empowered more than 120 young people through eight dynamic workshops, sparking creativity, building artistic skills, and fostering new friendships. After hearing so many of you say, “We want more!” — we’re delivering!


In 2025, we’re excited to present TWO brand-new, animal-themed creative workshops for young people aged 12–24 running from 4pm to 6pm on Thursdays or Wednesdays:


Workshop 1: Mixed Media Animals – Thursdays from 22 May to 12 June

Over four weeks, participants will dive into the wonderful world of animals and mixed media! You’ll explore a variety of materials and techniques to bring your favourite creatures to life, creating one or more finished mixed media artworks on paper. This workshop is all about experimenting, expressing your creativity, and producing stunning animal-inspired masterpieces.


Workshop 2: Pop Art Animal Portraits – Wednesdays from 4 June to 25 June

Inspired by the bold colours and patterns of Pop Art icons like Yayoi Kusama, Michel Keck, and Andy Warhol, this four-week workshop will teach you how to create vibrant animal portraits. You’ll learn how to simplify designs, use contrast and patterns, and work in layers with watercolour, acrylic, paint pens, and collage. Plus, you’ll incorporate "clean waste" materials—like discarded papers and packaging—adding an eco-friendly, pop-culture twist to your art!


Both workshops will include:

·        Professional artist instruction

·        All materials and refreshments provided

·        Opportunities to exhibit your work on our Centre walls

·        A welcoming, inclusive space at The Place Charlestown Community Centre


ENROLEMENTS ARE CURRENTLY OPEN! – register below or contact us by phone on 02 4032 5500 or email us via youthprograms1@theplacecharlestown.org.au

 

Workshop 1: Mixed Media Animals – Thursdays from 22 May to 12 June

 

Workshop 2: Pop Art Animal Portraits – Wednesdays from 4 June to 25 June

 

A huge thank you to the NSW Government for making this exciting extension possible and supporting the creative growth of our young community members. Let’s keep the creativity flowing and celebrate the wild world of animals through art!


#MadeAtThePlace #YouthArt #AnimalArt #PopArt #CreativeConnections #NSWGovernment #LakeMacYouth

by Cristelle Govender 28 November 2025
As we reach the end of another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have achieved together. 2025 has been a year of connection, resilience, and community spirit at The Place Charlestown Community Centre. Whether you participated in a program, volunteered your time, partnered with us, or simply walked through our doors with a smile, your contribution has helped make our Centre a welcoming and vibrant space for all. This year has also highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by many in our community. Cost-of-living pressures, social isolation, and complex life circumstances continue to impact people in different ways. Yet, despite these realities, we have witnessed incredible compassion, generosity, and strength from individuals and groups across our community. As we enter the festive season, I encourage everyone to take the time to “fill your cup”, to rest, recharge, and spend time with those who lift you up. It’s important to look after ourselves so that we can continue to support others. At the same time, Christmas can be a difficult period for many. There are those who may be grieving, feeling lonely, or facing financial or emotional hardship. Let’s keep these community members in our thoughts and extend kindness wherever we can. A small gesture, a smile, a conversation, a check-in, a helping hand, can make a far bigger difference than we realise. Thank you for being part of our community this year. Your presence enriches The Place and strengthens the fabric of connection we are proud to foster. We look forward to sharing a new year filled with possibility, hope, and continued collaboration. Wishing you a safe, peaceful, and meaningful holiday season. Cristelle and the team at The Place
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