By: Vendor

Harmonious Colour Magiclay Painting (Book Week 2026)

Inspired by this year's CBCA Book Week theme Symphony of Story and illustrator Briony Stewart's beautiful illustrations, students will create a harmonious painting of a musical instrument using air dry clay. This activity explores how colour harmony can be used to tell a story, just as instruments come together to create a symphony.

Step 1

Pick a primary colour. Choose the colours either side on the colour wheel.

Step 2

Draw or trace a musical instrument on paper.

Step 3

Keep clay covered. Use small pieces at a time.

Step 4

Press clay onto the paper inside the outline. No glue needed.

Step 5

Use all colours in your palette as you fill the shape.

Step 6

Keep layering small pieces to cover the whole instrument.

What you'll need

Acknowledgement of Country

In the spirit of reconciliation, Zart acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and culture. We pay respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.