Young Western Bay Students Unveil Mural Project at The Arts Junction

Eleven tamariki from four Western Bay of Plenty primary schools have had their artwork transformed into two large-scale murals on display outside The Arts Junction on Katikati's Main Road. The pieces were unveiled in front of the young artists and their whānau on 26 June, with dragons, rainbows, pussycats, rabbits and beach scenes among the images the new-entrant students chose to represent 'What makes your heart sing?' — the theme set for the Katikati Open Air Art (KOAA) project known as 'The Youth Boards'.

KOAA manager Peri St John-Ives led the initiative alongside Ōmokoroa-based artist John Wilson, a published UK artist who has lived in New Zealand for a decade. The pair visited each school twice to work alongside the students, who were aged four to six when they created the artwork last year. Wilson said children that age bring a refreshing freedom to art. "They have no inhibitions — you say 'do a painting of me' and they won't even look at you. They'll just go ahead without thinking about colours or anything, so it's all natural."

St John-Ives admitted she had wondered whether the tamariki would lose focus after five minutes, but was struck by how quickly they became absorbed in their work, still painting an hour later. Parents were equally delighted — Rebecca Clarke said the project was wonderful for her daughter Astrid's confidence, while Kelly Hope described seeing all the children's faces light up with pride as "absolutely incredible".

Students taking part came from Katikati Primary, Matahui, Pahoia, and Waihī Beach schools. St John-Ives acknowledged the support of Harcourts Katikati, Creative BOP's Creative Community Scheme, and Menz Shed Katikati in making the project possible. The murals can be viewed at 36 Main Road, Katikati.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).