Disco Puppy provides a number of opportunities for innovative public programming activities engaging both parents and children. These activities should be conducted in a space next to the installation. This will enable children and parents to play whilst they catch their breath after playing with what is a very energetic game. As such Disco Puppy can be viewed as a catalyst for enlivening a gallery space, and for creative play and learning.

Craft Table: Parents and children making Disco Accessories at Ipswich Art Gallery

At the Ipswich Art Gallery, children were encouraged to make funky disco accessories (tiaras, belts, bracelets etc) at craft tables filled with enticing materials such as thread-able pompoms, foil, fluorescent card, and cellophane. Sunglasses similar to those worn by the puppies were printed on card for children to decorate and wear. Creations were displayed the gallery wall, or taken home to enjoy.

When children (and parents) needed a rest, they could lounge on beanbags in the space and read story books about puppies and dancing. Special events, such as a family fun day to promote the exhibition, were also included in the public program.

The public programming is a critical element of the exhibition's success. The art-making activities extended the time each visitor spent in the exhibition space, promoted learning, and provided opportunities parent/child interaction and play.

Craft table and title wall.

Craft materials

A child displaying her creations on a dedicated exhibition wall.

Disco accessories