This project is designed to raise environmental awareness, foster creativity in young minds and reward creative expression. Three schools will each win a R 10 000 cash prize, with a total of R 30 000 in cash to be won, with additional prizes to be won, says the mall.

The ARTopia School Arts Project offers primary school learners an opportunity to showcase their talent and explore the importance of sustainable living. Students are encouraged to create original artworks using recycled paper and eco-friendly materials, all while incorporating themes such as recycling, climate change, conservation, environmental impact and the future of our planet, adds Liberty Midlands Mall.

The mall says the project aims to not only enable students to express their creativity but also help to deepen their understanding of environmental responsibility in a fun and engaging way.

Key Campaign Phases

According to the mall, the campaign phases include: 

Phase 1 — Artwork Creation (Now until Friday, 27 June)

Learners at participating schools are currently hard at work, creating their art pieces, inspired by eco-conscious themes. Recycled paper was provided to encourage the use of sustainable materials in the creative process, for the participants who range from Grade 1 to Grade 7. The final artwork submissions are due by Friday, 27 June. 

Phase 2 — Public Exhibition (Tuesday, 1 to Monday, 14 July)

The short-listed artworks, up to 15 pieces per category from each school, will be displayed at Liberty Midlands Mall. The public will be invited to visit the exhibition and vote for their favourite pieces, allowing the community to actively participate in this youthful celebration of sustainability.

Phase 3 — Winners Announced

The winning artworks from each grade category will be chosen based on public votes. These winning pieces will be featured on exclusive canvas tote bags, which will be distributed at the mall as collectible items. 

Empowering the Next Generation

Lawrence Joubert, General Manager at Liberty Midlands Mall, concludes, "The ARTopia School Arts Project is a fantastic opportunity for young learners to not only showcase their creative abilities but also engage with the important issue of sustainability in modern life. We're excited to see how students interpret these themes and look forward to celebrating their creativity through the exhibition. This is just one of the many ways we aim to support meaningful, community-driven initiatives here at Midlands Mall."

For more information, visit www.midlandsmall.co.za. You can also follow Midlands Mall on Facebook, X, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor