Conversational Sandpit with Juliet Phraser

Brought to you by the SSAF

Conversational Sandpit is an interactive social artwork featuring sandpit tables with ceramic objects that people are invited to experience, interact, converse or unwind around in the educational gallery space of the ArtsLab. 

WHEN: Friday 24 April, 2-4PM
WHERE: Level 1, Arts and Cultural Building, Monash Road, Building 159 (MAP), next to the George Paton Gallery. 
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Inspired by my job as a kindergarten art teacher, this ongoing project explores neurodiverse sensory/social dynamics of play and conversation within public spaces. In this relaxed university context, students are invited to reconnect with their inner child through the options of play or having a chat/yarn about art or life. 

The installation includes two custom sandpit tables: one low infant-friendly height and one at sitting height. Within the trays, audiences can engage with colourful ceramic sculptures, crustaceans, shovels, trays, etc., designed for tactile interaction. Parallel play or bringing your own craft is encouraged if you’re not feeling particularly chatty or sandy.

About Juliet: 

I am an emerging artist, writer, filmmaker and arts facilitator based in Naarm/Melbourne. I hold a BFA (First Class Honours) from Monash University and a BFA in Photography from the VCA. Recently, I've studied to become an Early Childhood Art Teacher. Living with dynamic disabilities, my practice values labour, accessible care and collaboration through uncertainty. I produce works across video, drawing, sculpture and social practice. My research flows across children’s pedagogy, queer motherhood, neurodivergence and biopsychosocial disability. I aim to create projects that embrace collective vulnerability, play and the unknown in the face of climate crisis.