Visual Arts GATE Workshop

Thanks to the continued support of our official partner Community Bank – Fremantle – Bendigo Bank, WFAC is excited to announce the ninth event in a special series of ongoing free creative programs. This workshop has been specifically designed to support families applying for the year 7 Gifted and Talented (GATE) Visual Arts Specialist programs.

About the GATE Visual Arts Applications

GATE applications for Year 7 entry in 2027 close on the 6 February. This workshop takes place on 1 February, allowing families to confidently complete the initial application stage ahead of the deadline. At this stage, the GATE process requires the submission of an online application only (including student and family details). If successful in the next stages of the process, a collection of artworks or folio may be required. Please note each individual school has different requirements.

About this workshop

Led by Jenessa King and Jo Bowman, two highly skilled and passionate Arts Educators, this session will focus on building confidence and celebrating creativity as your prepare for the GATE Visual Arts specialist application.

In this workshop, students will gain confidence in using and applying visual arts language, as well as creating works you may wish to include in your application. Students are encouraged to bring artworks they are proud of—whether individual pieces or an existing portfolio.

The session will start with a conversation around visual art vocabulary, language and analysis techniques that will support students to build confidence in talking about art. Together, Jenessa and Jo will help students understand key terms and things to look out for, as you work together to make your own visual arts flashcards.

Following this, Jenessa and Jo will lead students in a still life exercise where students can express their unique creativity in a supportive environment. To finish the session, we’ll chat about shape and form, with a fun take-home exercise in sculpture!

Places are limited to ten families. One enrolment per family (each enrolment is for one child and one adult).  Children must attend with an adult. 

Given this workshop is to support students preparing for specialist art programs, we kindly ask that siblings are not brought along, even as observers, to ensure every place is available for students who need them.

While this workshop is designed to support families through the application and preparation process, attendance does not guarantee selection into a Gifted and Talented Visual Arts program, as all outcomes are determined by the Department of Education. Each school will have their own requirements as part of the process, however, this workshop is about supporting students to build confidence in both creating and talking about art, as well as learning to listen to instruction and foster a love and appreciation of visual arts.

What to Bring

• If your preferred school requires a portfolio, feel free to bring an A4 or A3 folder (or your existing portfolio if you have already begun one). They will advise the required format.
• Any artworks you are proud of.
• All other materials will be supplied on the day.

Building Access

Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre is a heritage-listed site with access limitations. There are no lift facilities within the main building, and the Painting Studio is accessible via stairs only. Lighting includes a mix of natural and fluorescent light, and flooring is dark in colour.

We acknowledge these limitations and are committed to improving accessibility where possible. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or would like to discuss access needs.