NorthTec at Kaitaia art show

NorthTec students and tutor Joy Wikitera of the Te Pokaitahi Ngapuhi-Nui-Tonu Te Raranga (level 3) course, and Learning Advisor Helen Cossey from North Tec’s Kaitaia campus took part in the 2009 Community Arts Society’s Art and Craft Exhibition at the Community Centre in Kaitaia last month.

It was Helen’s third time at the exhibition, which is an annual event, and she found it to be an exhilarating and inspirational time. 

“So many people come through and their responses to your work are so encouraging.  It is sometimes a challenge to have the confidence to bring your art into the public eye, and so when someone says how much they admire your work, it makes all the work you have put into your pieces so worthwhile.” 

Helen is a painter and loves photography and enjoyed the opportunity to share recent paintings and photographs on canvas.

Joy’s students were also ‘blown away’ by the public’s response to their work.  Dot Tahitahi, Carolyn Matthews, Kamiria Wijohn, Anne Anderson (from Joy’s 2008 course), Liza Henry and Sue Clarke spent the four days at the exhibition working on new and older pieces.  For these students it was their first opportunity to be a part of an exhibition like this. 

Carolyn and Anne are both undergoing treatment for cancer.  They both said that the time spent over the four days was a positive time of healing and encouragement. 

“The aura and vibe of the show, as well as all the people coming through is really positive,” said Carolyn.  “Working with harakeke, which has always been a part of Maori culture, is a good part of the healing process.  You can’t let illness stop you from doing things, it doesn’t matter what is going on with you, you have got to keep going or you will end up making yourself fall down.”

The other students agreed with Carolyn saying that a weaving environment is supportive and positive, and they were encouraged that those visiting the exhibition felt so comfortable talking and sharing with them.

All of the 2009 students will be carrying on in 2010 with Joy’s support during the week as they do weekend block courses for the Level 6 Diploma Te Pokairua Ngapuhi-Nui-Tonu Te Raranga. 

NorthTec is the Tai Tokerau (Northland) region's largest provider of tertiary education, with campuses and learning centres in Whangarei, Kerikeri, Rawene, Dargaville, Kaikohe and Kaitaia.  NorthTec also has over 60 community-based delivery points from Coatesville in rural Rodney to Ngataki in the Far North.