Clapsticks painting and yarn with Adam Manning

As part of In Full Bloom, MAC yapang's 25th birthday celebration, you will be guided through creating and painting your own pair of clapsticks while learning about their role in storytelling, song, ceremony, rhythm and connection to Country.

Drawing on cultural knowledge and contemporary practice, Adam will share insights into the materials, techniques and traditions associated with clapstick making. There will be time to yarn, ask questions and learn more about the cultural significance of clapsticks.

Whether you're new to cultural workshops or looking to deepen your understanding of First Nations cultural practices, this welcoming session is an opportunity to learn, create and take home your own handcrafted pair of clapsticks.

What you'll experience

• Learn about the cultural significance of clapsticks in Aboriginal culture

• Explore materials and techniques used in traditional clapstick making

• Create your own pair of clapsticks to take home

• Hear stories, knowledge and insights shared by Adam Manning

• Connect with others through a creative and culturally enriching experience

Key information

• Duration: 2 hours

• Age: 12+ (A supervising adult must accompany children under 16 years)

• Limited capacity. Book early to avoid disappointment

• This event will be held in the MAC yapang marquee space

• Please arrive 5 minutes before the event starts

• Ticket holders should check in with staff on arrival

• Participants are required to wear closed-in shoes

• MAC yapang is wheelchair accessible and has accessible parking and amenities. If you have specific access requirements, please contact the venue before the event.

• For enquiries, contact mac@lakemac.nsw.gov.au.

Meet Adam Manning

Adam Manning is a musician, artist, composer and researcher, born on Awabakal/Worimi Country and a Kamilaroi descendant. Rhythm is central to his creative practice, connecting sound and visual pattern with the environmental pulses and cycles of Ngaya Barray (Mother Earth).

In Full Bloom: A birthday bash for MAC yapang

When: Saturday 14 November | 10:30am-5pm Where: MAC yapang (Museum of Art and Culture, yapang)

Join us at MAC yapang for In Full Bloom, a big birthday celebration packed with art, music, food, workshops, performances and more. Celebrating 25 years of MAC yapang, 30 years of the Sculpture Park and 5 years of MAP mima, there’s something for everyone and a full day of events planned. This is one birthday party you won’t want to miss!

Visit the MAC yapang website for the full program and event details.

This event may be photographed and filmed, and your image could be used in advertising and promotion by Lake Macquarie City Council. If you do not wish to be photographed or filmed, please advise the event organisers when you arrive.

Image: Adam Manning, Clapsticks 2022, Tasmanian Oak & Acrylic. Courtesy of the artist