In a soft and whimsical world full of colour, texture and sound, Make Yourself at Home encourages visitors to explore what it really means to feel at home. From lovingly crafted paper food to weaving and puppetry, you’ll discover unique and creative ways to connect with the concept of family.
Ipswich Art Gallery Kids’ (IAG Kids) latest installation is a delightful mixture of hands on activities which suits toddlers through to older school aged children and everybody else in between.
Make Yourself at Home – What Kids Can Create
Make Yourself at Home, the current exhibition to take over the dedicated Children’s Gallery, is a culmination of stories as told through the hands and eyes of various homegrown and international artists.
On offer are four interactive stations which explore themes of nostalgia, comfort and a sense of belonging. The modern and colourful room is adorned with vibrant artwork – a collection of artist and child made pieces which aim to explore the idea of what it takes to make a home.
Displayed on cool, 2D comic-style furniture, are the plush sculptures of Ipswich artist Alice Nightingale, whose works tap into childhood memories of birthday parties, snacks and even a hot chook bag. This tactile station is full of craft materials such as paper, fabric, pipe cleaners and foil to be twisted, cut up, glued and turned into food that speaks of home. The creative opportunities are endless and with the use of imagination can evoke the multiple senses of touch, smell and taste.
On the long gallery wall, you’ll find an intricate display of drawings which come together to form a pattern known as tapa. Children and grown-ups are invited to create a four, square pattern which encompasses their view of home including moments from the past, familiar faces and natural places of significance. The end result is a collaborative paper quilt of memories which reflect the philosophies of New Zealand born Sam Tupou.
The bold work of Arwin Hidayat is featured through the use of puppetry where visitors are able to build functional characters complete with moving arms and legs. Make your own puppet and take to the stage to participate in one of the world’s oldest forms of storytelling. Nearby,
The Lounge corner offers a low sensory option which is designed for maximum comfort and relaxation. A nod to his work Pillows, local artist Norton Fredericks has produced beautiful hand-spun wool for weaving and gentle play. This station is great for toddler hands and provides the perfect time to pause and reflect on meanings of home.
Make Yourself at Home – Who is it Best For?
This cosy exhibit is designed for children of all ages and skill levels. The over arching theme of Make Yourself at Home, is relatable and accessible to all visitors leading to a safe and supportive environment for self expression.
The craft centric activities such as the food making and puppetry are best suited for children with basic scissor and sticky tape construction skills alongside some adult assistance as required.
Friday morning toddler time sessions are especially designed for small fingers (four years old and under) with an array of soft play items and easy to handle weaving wool. Primary school aged children can flex their creative muscles with more complex builds and designs while also delving deeper into the messaging behind the exhibit.
Put aside a couple of hours to enjoy this no cost, weatherproof, high engagement activity which is not only child friendly but made just for them.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
The Ipswich Art Gallery is located next to the historical Top of Town and is within a short walking distance to the Nicholas Street Precinct and other child friendly attractions such as the Children’s Library.
Keep in mind this is an operational art gallery and therefore no food or drinks are allowed inside, and large bags will need to be left at reception. Make sure the kids are well fed before entry to avoid any unwanted snack tantrums!
The Children’s Gallery is located on the second floor however a lift caters for pram and wheelchair access. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available on the lower ground level, also reachable via lift.
Feel free to explore the main gallery exhibition, which often ties in nicely to the IAG Kids program, just be mindful to look and not touch.
Make Yourself at Home – Key Information
Where: Ipswich Art Gallery, d’Arcy Doyle Place, Ipswich QLD 4305
Dates: 25th July – 8th November 2026
Times: Open from 10:00am – 5:00pm daily
Cost: Free
Bookings: Bookings are only required for facilitated and organised groups
Age: All ages are welcome. Friday morning Toddler Time sessions begin on 31st July 2026 and finish on 6th November 2026 (excluding school holidays), running from 10:00am – 11:00am.
Parking: Nearby parking can be found at the Nicholas Street Precinct Carpark and is free for the first 3 hours.
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