South Taranaki creatives to showcase work in community exhibition

STDC Arts Co-ordinator Michaela Stoneman facilitated a Crafty Weekend Wānanga at Normanby Recreation Centre on 18-19 July, led by renowned Aotearoa New Zealand textile artist Maungarongo (Ron) Te Kawa (Ngāti Porou).

Known for his larger-than-life wall hangings celebrating Te Ao Māori and the people of the land, Ron exhibits regularly in public galleries throughout New Zealand and has completed international residencies.

“Running wananga/workshops is the fun side of my art practice, holding space for people to play and make in a fun, non-judgemental safe space. We learn together, everyone brings something special into the room,” says Ron.

Thirty South Taranaki creatives, ranging in age from nine to over 70, took part in the wānanga, bringing a wide range of interpretations and energy to the kaupapa.

“Inclusion and participation were paramount for this project. The cost was only $10 to attend, which included demonstrations, and a wide range of art materials,” says Michaela.

As the second stage of the project, participants will have the opportunity to exhibit their work alongside Ron’s in a curated exhibition at Lysaght Watt Gallery in Hāwera.

“The title of the exhibition is about being grateful. ‘Born Under a Lucky Star’ refers to all healing coming from nature - and that we are always being guided by Te Taiao. It refers to having gratitude for time and space to create together. It’s drawing on our own highest energy, and manifesting that the best is yet to come,” says Ron.

The exhibition, Born Under a Lucky Star, opens at 5pm on Sunday 9 August at Hāwera's community hub, Te Ramanui o Ruapūtahanga, celebrating both the participating South Taranaki artists and Ron’s work.

Running until 14 September, the exhibition will showcase the colour, vitality and creativity of artists from across the district.

A programme of public events will run alongside the exhibition, providing further opportunities for community connection and engagement