This document provides instructions for making paper mache sculptures inspired by Aboriginal artist Lin Onus. It discusses Onus' sculpture "Goannas in Wheelbarrow" and how it represented humor in facing adversity. The activity encourages students to think about difficult times they have faced and create a paper mache sculpture representing it. Students are provided materials like newspaper, glue, and paint to construct and decorate their sculptures before displaying and reflecting on them.

1. Making Paper MacheIn the style of Lin Onus

2. Lin OnusLin Onus sculpture ‘Goannas in Wheelbarrow’ represented humour in the face of unhappy experiences. “Aboriginal cultural strengths often include an ability to ‘laugh in the face of adversity’, and thus was something Onus appreciated as an essential element ‘ensuring the survival of an oppressed people’.”Leslie, D. (2008). Aboriginal Art Creativity and Assimilation. Melbourne: Macmillan Art Publishing.‘Goannas in Wheelbarrow’ (1996)Leslie, D. (2008). Aboriginal Art Creativity and Assimilation. Melbourne: Macmillan Art Publishing.

3. Paper Mache activityPoints for the students to think about:Times when they have been through difficulties at school, at home, in the communityGive students ideas to help them think deeply about these times eg a death in the family, being bullied, a major issue they have experiencedActivity geared at older year levels

4. IngredientsYou will need:Pencil

5. Paper – plain and coloured.

6. Newspaper

7. PVA glue of can make own with flour and water

8. Paint

9. Paint brushes