Oscar Niemeyer Museum Launches Sensory Workshop for Infants

The Oscar Niemeyer Museum in Brazil has introduced a specialized sensory workshop designed for infants aged 25 to 36 months. Titled 'Uma flor chamada vermelho' (A Flower Called Red), the activity takes place on April 9th as part of the museum's MON Primeiros Passos program. The workshop centers around Franz Weissmann's sculpture 'Flor Mineral,' guiding participants through an interactive experience that begins in the museum's workshop space and continues to the Sculpture Courtyard where the artwork is displayed. Over approximately one hour, infants and their adult companions engage in sensory exploration using materials like clay, fabrics, and colored papers through sculpture and collage activities. The program emphasizes early artistic exposure through multisensory stimulation, focusing on form, color, and texture exploration. Launched in 2023, the MON Primeiros Passos initiative has already engaged over 700 participants and maintains an inclusive approach welcoming infants with diverse needs. The program gained international recognition in 2025 when it was presented at the Hands On 2025 conference at Eureka! The National Children's Museum, representing the sole South American participant. Registration is required in advance with limited availability, reinforcing the museum's commitment to artistic experimentation beginning in early childhood.