Little ArtLab – Memory Jars: Messages to the Future
Friday 17 April 2026 | 10:30 AM
Surfers Paradise
Little ones can experiment, play and create with art-based activities inspired by HOTA Gallery's current exhibitions.
Little ArtLab provides hands-on creative fun for kids aged 3–5 years to enjoy with their parents and carers.
When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 CE, the ancient Roman city of Pompeii was buried beneath volcanic ash and stone. Preserved in extraordinary detail, the city offers a rare glimpse into everyday life nearly 2,000 years ago. From jokes scratched into walls to stashes of trinkets and charms, these discoveries reveal the personalities, stories and small moments of the people who once lived there.
If you could preserve this moment in time and send a message to your future self, what would you include?
Let’s think about our hopes and dreams, funny stories, best friends and favourite animals. In this workshop we will capture beautiful moments by drawing, tracing, writing, sculpting and collecting. We’ll seal these precious memories – from the magnificent to the mundane in personally decorated memory jars to take home.
We encourage you and your adult to explore the Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life exhibition before or after the making activity.
Children must be accompanied by an adult or carer and cannot be left unsupervised at any time.
Getting there
Consider using public transport or active travel. Plan your trip with Translink's journey planner.
Parking may be limited. For metered parking, use the EasyPark app to start, end, and extend your parking direct from your phone to avoid fines. For more information visit City of Gold Coast's Parking page.