Creatures & Creators is a cross-disciplinary initiative by the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), in partnership with the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation and Cape Town Creative Academy. The project celebrates the intersection of art, design, science, and accessibility while showcasing the creative potential of two exciting Grade 10-12 matric subjects: Design and Marine Sciences.
learners were challenged to design and create tactile clay relief tiles inspired by the rich biodiversity of South Africa’s rocky shores. Through the thoughtful use of texture, pattern, and raised surfaces, each artwork tells the story of a marine creature, inviting visitors to explore its unique characteristics through touch.

Designed as an inclusive experience, the final exhibition at the Two Oceans Aquarium will feature tactile artworks accompanied by interpretive text in both print and Braille. By inviting visitors to engage through multiple senses, the exhibition aims to make the stories of South Africa’s rocky shore creatures accessible to everyone.”

Helderberg International School were thrilled that our talented Art & Design learner, Antony Chen in Yr 11 (and Biology IGCSE in Yr 10) was selected to participate in the workshop after submitting one of his earlier final artworks of a swimmer having an unexpected encounter with a sea turtle.

Antony has the following to say about his experience: I really enjoyed my time there. I was surprised to see how many organisations participated to make the event happen.

I learnt many things about the rock pools in South Africa, as well as the difficulties faced by the visually impaired. Most of all I got to talk to the students at the Creative Academy and discovered why they chose to go to university, and I found this valuable in terms of what I want to do in the future.

Lynda Leibbrandt Art Teacher