Nurturing Creativity
For as long as I can remember, art has been my compass. It has guided me through countless adventures in self-expression and discovery, and in March 2023, it led me to open The Cardboard Castle, my own children’s art studio—right out of my home. Over a year later, this studio has become more than just a space for kids to create. It’s a place where imagination is nurtured, each child’s unique artistic voice is celebrated, and the joy of making something with your hands becomes a journey of exploration and self-expression.
Starting this studio has been a long-held dream, shaped by my diverse experiences in the art world. I’ve worked in bustling children’s art studios, developed programs for art education franchises, taught at international private schools, curated workshops in libraries, and even spent time as a screen printer for a fashion design company. Each role gave me new perspectives on what art education can be. But what really excited me was the idea of creating my own space—somewhere kids could dive into creativity without limits, make a mess, explore freely, and feel empowered in their artistic expression.
Of course, it wasn’t an easy decision. Like many small business owners, I had my doubts. Would children want to come? Could I create a space that truly felt inspiring and warm? How would I balance teaching with the demands of running a studio? These questions swirled in my mind, but one thing kept me moving forward: my unwavering belief in the importance of creativity and the transformative power of art for children.
Creating a Space for Expression
The Cardboard Castle was born out of a desire to give kids the freedom to express themselves in ways that feel completely their own. Art can be so many things: a form of storytelling, a release of emotions, a joyful experiment in colour and texture. I wanted to create a space that embraces all these elements, where kids feel safe to try new things and learn that art is as much about the process as it is about the final product.
One of the most exciting parts of setting up The Cardboard Castle was transforming my garage into a vibrant, welcoming studio. It’s bright and full of life, with a hand-painted rug, lanterns, and flower-shaped lamps hanging from the ceiling, creating a warm, imaginative atmosphere. Every corner is thoughtfully designed with children in mind, from walls displaying previous students’ artwork to tables ready for the next creative adventure. It’s a space that reflects their potential, bursting with colour, light, and endless possibilities.
Art as a Tool for Growth
Over the years, I’ve come to realize that art is more than just an activity. It’s a tool for growth, for learning about the world and ourselves. In my classes, I don’t just focus on teaching techniques or materials (though those are important, too); I focus on helping children discover their unique creative voices. Each child is different, and that’s what makes teaching art so rewarding. When a child picks up a brush or pastel and makes their first mark, they’re not just creating an image—they’re learning to trust their ideas and express who they are.
In the studio, we explore a wide range of projects—from painting and drawing to sculpture and mixed media. I love introducing children to both traditional techniques and unconventional materials, because the more varied their creative experiences, the more confident they become in their ability to think outside the box. My goal is to show them that there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to make art. Every piece, every experiment, is part of their creative journey.
The Joy of Teaching Art
Teaching has always been the heart of my work, and it brings me the greatest joy. There’s nothing quite like seeing a child’s face light up when they realize they’ve created something they’re proud of. I’ve had the privilege of working with so many incredible young artists over the years, and each one has taught me something new about the creative spirit. Children approach art with curiosity, openness, and wonder—qualities I hope to cultivate in every class.
Opening The Cardboard Castle feels like the culmination of years of teaching, dreaming, and planning. It’s a place where I pour my heart into helping kids discover their potential as artists and creative thinkers. It’s also a space where I continue to grow as an artist and teacher, learning from the kids who walk through the doors.
What’s Next for The Cardboard Castle
As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue expanding The Cardboard Castle’s offerings. From seasonal art programs to weekend workshops and special events, I want to keep pushing the boundaries of what we can explore together. I’m looking forward to introducing more collaborative projects, new materials, and diving deeper into the intersection of art, nature, and creativity.
Each child who comes to The Cardboard Castle has a unique voice, and my mission is to help them find it, nurture it, and celebrate it. There’s no greater privilege than watching a child discover the joy of making art and realizing their ideas are valuable. I’m grateful every day to be part of that journey.
The Cardboard Castle is more than a studio—it’s a community, a creative hub, and a place where every child’s imagination can take flight. I’m excited to continue this adventure and can’t wait to see where it leads us next.
— Terri Papagiannis
Founder and Curator, The Cardboard Castle
Spring Holiday Programmes 🌸
Join us for a fun and creative series of holiday art programmes this October at The Cardboard Castle in Hobsonville Point! Each day offers a new opportunity for your child to explore, learn, and dive into exciting art projects. These one-day programmes are designed to ignite creativity, encourage artistic expression, and make the process of creating art truly enjoyable.
Programme Dates:
Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Ages: 6-12 years
Cost: $85 per day (all materials included)
Term 4 Weekly Art Classes 🎨
Get ready for an exciting Term 4 at The Cardboard Castle! Our weekly classes are designed to nurture your child's creativity, with projects in painting, drawing, sculpture, and more. With small class sizes, each young artist receives individual guidance and the freedom to explore their unique creative voice.
Spring 2024 Class Schedule:
Ages: 6-12 years
Spaces are limited—reserve your spot now!