Term OneWorks on paper. Exploring a new theme each year looking at mediums watercolour, drawing, markers, collage.
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Term TwoPrintmaking. Students will create their own artist book filled with a range of print making techniques.
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Term ThreeSculpture. Each year we explore a range of clay, construction and textile techniques.
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Term FourPainting. Each year students will create an acrylic work on canvas to be showcased at our annual student exhibition event.
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Our whyAt Tinker, we offer regular afterschool term classes in Toowoomba that nurture creative confidence and individuality.
Founded by artist and educator Alex Stalling, who experience teaching the creative arts to both children and adults since 2004. Tinker was built on the belief that everyone deserves access to authentic arts education. We champion the idea that creative confidence comes not from strict instruction, but from freedom, curiosity, and trust in the creative process. Our classes focus on process over perfection. We know that outcomes unfold naturally when students are given the autonomy to explore. By building skills and understanding artistic mediums, students begin to develop their own artistic language and self-assurance. Tinker is proud to collaborate with professional, practicing artists—those who have forged careers from their craft. We believe that exposure to diverse styles, techniques, and creative paths helps young artists embrace their own uniqueness. Individuality is our difference. We offer a safe space for students to experiment, take creative risks, and discover what makes their art. and themselves, unique. Whether it’s a piece they’re proud of or one that didn’t quite land, every work is part of the journey. We’re here for all of it, the bold, the messy, the brilliant, and everything in between. |
Our Approach to Arts EducationAt Tinker, we pride ourselves on offering a multidisciplinary approach to arts education, blending foundational techniques with modern styles across a wide range of mediums.
We believe every student has an artist within, and our role is to unlock that creative voice through choice, exploration, and autonomy. Students are encouraged to follow their interests, take creative risks, and build confidence in their individual expression. Each term focuses on a core artistic discipline, such as drawing, painting, textiles, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking, or mixed media. Every year brings new experiences, with many students continuing across multiple terms, steadily building on their knowledge, technique, and confidence. By working across diverse mediums, students grow not just in skill but in creative thinking, problem-solving, and imagination. We offer access to materials and processes that many may not have the opportunity to explore outside of a dedicated studio environment, broadening both their experience and artistic potential. |
What's included✨ 10 weeks of engaging art classes aligned with the school term*
✨ All materials supplied—just bring your curiosity ✨ A Tinker journal to document your creative journey ✨ 1-hour sessions in a dedicated art studio ✨ Facilitated by a professional, practicing artist ✨ A safe, inspiring space designed for creative fun ✨ A supportive group of like-minded young artists ✨ Opportunity to participate in our Annual Student Exhibition (for Term 4 enrolments) *Term 4 may vary slightly to align with school holiday schedules; fees are adjusted accordingly. |
Alex StallingStudio Director & TeacherWith a Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours), Alex brings a warm, inspiring, and supportive approach to art education for both children and adults.
With a passion for nurturing individual creativity, Alex ensures every child feels seen, valued, and inspired. Her broad knowledge across both 2D and 3D mediums allows her to design exciting, hands-on art experiences that are both educational and fun. In her classes, kids are free to explore, make bold choices, and develop their own artistic style, all in a welcoming, safe, and professionally run studio environment. |
Emma MessengerTeacherWith a background in education and community support roles, Emma began teaching her passion art, to adults and kids throughout the region.
She is committed to fostering a calm and supportive atmosphere that empowers students to articulate their creativity with thought and happiness. While Emma utilises acrylics in her personal art practice, and enjoys sharing her knowledge of other mediums, whilst continuously broadening her creative portfolio |