The National Gallery in London is home to some of the world’s most famous paintings, but did you know it’s also a place where you can get hands-on with art? The Roden Centre for Creative Learning is a brand-new space designed especially for kids, young people and families to explore, create, and play. It’s one of the UK’s largest gallery learning centres, filled with exciting activities inspired by the National Gallery’s incredible collection. Whether you want to draw, paint, build, or experiment with new ideas, the Centre is the perfect place to let your imagination run wild. Best of all, it’s free to drop in on weekends and school holidays!
The Roden Centre for Creative Learning is now open. Find out more here.
Art isn’t just about making pictures – it can boost your mood, help you think creatively, and even teach you new skills without you realising. Here are ten amazing reasons why getting creative is great for you!
1. Art makes you happy!
Splash, scribble, sculpt – getting creative is a great way to feel good and have fun.
At the Centre, you can try exciting activities that boost your mood.

2. Art brings people together.
Whether you’re painting with family or making sculptures with friends, art is even better when you share the fun.

3. Art lets you express yourself.
Do you love bright colours? Or tiny details?
However you like to create, art helps you show your ideas and feelings in your own way.

4. Art sparks your imagination.
From mixing crazy colours to painting portraits in the Clore Art Studio, creativity helps you think in new and exciting ways.

5. Art is for everyone!
You don’t need to be an expert – anyone can be an artist.
Come along and see for yourself!

6. Art encourages experimentation.
There’s no right or wrong way to be creative – you can try out crazy ideas and see where your imagination takes you!

7. Art improves focus and patience.
Drawing, painting, or sculpting takes time and concentration, this helps you stay focused while having lots of fun.

8. Art connects you to stories from the past.
Many of the activities at the Centre are inspired by famous artworks in the National Gallery, so you can you explore art from history in a fun way.

9. Art builds skills without you even noticing.
From improving your hand-eye coordination to boosting problem-solving skills, making art helps you in ways you might not expect.
The more you create, the better you get at thinking fast – whether it’s playing with toys or being quick on your feet in the playground!

10. Art stays with you.
The fun doesn’t stop when you leave the Centre – you can take inspiration home, keep experimenting, and make amazing art anytime, anywhere!

Add a commentThe Roden Centre for Creative Learning is now open. Find out more here.