Docklands’ new art school

Art has been Julia Mindraoui’s passion for as long as she can remember, but it wasn’t until last year that the stars aligned, and she was ready to turn her passion into her life.

The Artsy Kid, located at 126 Lorimer St, Docklands, opened its doors just over six months ago, and Ms Mindraoui has had the pleasure of watching her business become an important part of many Docklanders’ lives.

There is a range of classes on offer for kids aged between three and 12 years, helping them develop various artistic techniques.

The sessions run for 45 minutes for students aged between three and five, while older students attend for an hour and a half.

“The point of the tutorial is that they can learn some techniques,” she said. “I’d like them to learn a little skill in the funniest, most achievable way for their age.”

Now, with three terms under her belt, Ms Mindraoui is pleased to see parents returning and her classes continuing to grow.

Parents looking to host birthday parties can also book private sessions, with a courtyard out the back for them to mingle while the kids have a blast with brushes and canvases.

With so many cafés and restaurants in Docklands, Ms Mindraoui wanted to bring something new to the table – something that could become a cornerstone of the community and help foster creativity.

Having worked as an interior designer for several years before stepping into the chaotic world of parenting, Ms Mindraoui has always allowed her passion for art and design to guide her career.

However, after dedicating several years to raising her child she didn’t want to return to interior design, seeking a change instead.

She decided to enrol in art school and the rest is history, and it’s safe to say Docklands is all the better for it. •