Media contributions
1Media contributions
Title Episode 162 Co-Designing a Pedagogical Approach at the National Gallery of Australia Degree of recognition International Media name/outlet The Art Engager Podcast Media type Web Duration/Length/Size 00:53:52 Country/Territory Netherlands Date 19/02/26 Description In this episode Claire Bown is joined by Georgia Close and Harriet Body from the National Gallery of Australia, alongside Naomi Zouwer from the University of Canberra, to explore how the gallery co-designed its Creative Learning approach.
The conversation traces an 18-month process of articulating a shared pedagogical framework shaped by national context, cultural responsibility, and First Nations-led principles. Rather than adopting an existing model, the team worked through workshops, observation, interviews and iterative “campaigns” to develop a cohesive, values-led approach.
A key commitment was centring the artist’s voice, placing artist intention in conversation with students’ existing knowledge. From this, the team developed a Creative Learning strategy planning tool that supports inquiry-led, multimodal, embodied and reflective practice.
Across the episode, they explore:
How to develop a context-specific learning approach rather than importing a model
What it means in practice to centre the artist’s voice
How small, iterative “campaigns” can embed reflective practice in a team
How multimodality and embodiment deepen engagement beyond discussion
Why joy is understood as a serious pedagogical commitment
What co-design and participatory action research look like inside a museum setting
This episode will resonate with anyone working in museums, galleries or cultural institutions who is thinking carefully about pedagogy, reflective practice, and how to articulate an approach that genuinely reflects their context and values.
The Art Engager is written and presented by Claire Bown. Editing is by Matt Jacobs and Claire Bown. Music by Richard Bown. Support on PatreonProducer/Author Claire Bown Persons Naomi ZOUWER, Harriet Body, Georgia Close, Clare Bown