We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of New South Wales stands.

Children’s Art Show, 1944

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It was the largest number of artists ever to exhibit at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. The 1944 ‘Children’s Art Show’ included 710 budding artists, from the ages of 4 to 17. At least two of the children – Col Jordan and Hermia Boyd – continued as professional artists later in life.

As World War Two dragged on for a fourth year, the Gallery teamed up with The Sunday Telegraph newspaper to ensure that young Australians were not overlooked by engaging them through art.

When we saw this amazing clip from 76 years ago, we thought straight away of the many wonderful children’s artworks, created during the COVID-19 crisis, that have been submitted for Together In Art Kids. Creativity during crisis, now and then!