We are thrilled to present this NGĀ ART update, highlighting the incredible accomplishments we have achieved in the first six months of 2023. It has been a period of growth, creativity, and community engagement, and we are excited to share our progress with you. Here’s a glimpse of what we have delivered and what you can look forward to:
Delivered Highlights:
Art Workshops and Classes: Our team conducted a series of NEW interactive art workshops and classes for people of all ages and skill levels. From painting and sewing, to crafting and woodwork, these sessions provided valuable learning opportunities and encouraged artistic expression. Our new term programmes are becoming very popular, and we would encourage you all to keep an eye on our Facebook page for release of the term 3 classes.
Community Art Day: What fun we all had! We had over 100 people attend our community open day with over 10 activities for all ages. We hope to do this again this year.
Cultural Sustainability Workshops: Our dedicated partners Para Kore have started conducting a series of engaging workshops with a core focus on reducing our waste while upskilling in areas such as gardening and resources use. These workshops are delivered from a te ao Māori perspective have helped preserve and promote our unique cultural heritage, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation among participants.
Community Project – Mural: We delivered our Mural 101 class in term one, encouraging rangatahi participation and engagement in the arts. The exciting outcome is that they contributed to the amazing Mills Price Cutter Mural and improved the vibrancy of their own neighborhood. This initiative fostered a sense of pride and ownership in the community, emphasising the transformative power of art.
Upcoming Events and Projects:
Term Three Classes: Our term 3 classes are currently being planned. We will continue to deliver our traditional programmes and add a few different one-off classes to ensure that we have a greater appeal for everyone in Ngaruawahia. Here is a list of what we have planned:
- Tamariki Art Clubs
- Art n Soul
- Hand Built Pottery
- Exploring Art
- Dress Making
- Taaniko
- Jam Session for youth
- Rongoā Māori
- Hip Hop Dance for kids
- Digital Art
- Youth Creatives Hub
- Youth Art Sessions
- Adult Paint Sessions
- Yoga outreach in schools
- Crochet
- Expressive Arts
Community Project – Matariki Film: “Ngāruawāhia: Our Stories” is a film project that aims to showcase the rich tapestry of local stories from our community, presented through a distinct local perspective. This documentary will delve deep into the heart of our community, uncovering untold tales, experiences, and perspectives that have shaped our collective identity. By giving voice to our community members, the film will capture the essence of our locality, celebrating the diversity, resilience, and unique heritage that makes our community truly special. Our community will come together for viewings, this will strengthen the community as we honour the past and celebrate the present. This film will highlight the impact and legacy left behind by those who have passed, showcasing how their lives have influenced and shaped our community by use of visual tributes within the film, such as a collection of photographs, nga taonga tuku iho and significant places . We will come together for the viewings, this will remind us of how great our community is.
The premier night on the 30th of June is an invite only to the film participants. Public can attend one of our public viewings of the film from the 2nd to the 6th of July with both night and day showings. These will be published on our social media platforms.
Community Project – Matariki ki Kura: 9 Schools have participated in our Matariki ki Kura project. This projects connects with our Ngaruawahia: Our Stories film where we have had more locals share their experiences by way of a written story or poem. These have then been used to inspire our local rangatahi to create a canvas art of which will be exhibited alongside the film. Make sure to come see these during the first week of the school holidays.
We are immensely grateful for your continued support, which enables us to bring the power of art to our community. If you wish to get involved, volunteer, or contribute ideas, please reach out to our dedicated team.
Stay connected with us through our social media channels and website for the latest updates and announcements. We look forward to continuing this exciting journey with you!
With warm regards,
Our NGĀ ART team.
NGĀ ART - Te Whare Toi o Ngaaruawaahia 