Celebrating Creativity
Local School’s Inspirational Art Project
In a burst of colours and creativity, students at Henderson Valley Primary School have transformed their campus into a vibrant canvas, reflecting their inspirations from tūrangawaewae and insightful sessions with guest speakers. At the unveiling event, it was clear that this art project was more than just a school assignment—it was a journey of discovery, collaboration, and expression that captivated everyone involved.
The art project at Henderson Valley Primary School began as a visionary idea to encourage creative expression in talented young artists as part of the Creatives in Schools project with local organisation Creative Matters. The school aimed to inspire students by connecting art with the natural world, resulting in two beautiful installations that now adorn the school grounds. These installations are a testament to the students' hard work and creativity, reflecting their learning journey and the themes discussed during the project.
The main theme of the art was tūrangawaewae, giving students an opportunity to express their identity through their connection with place. The initiative was guided by Mandy from Creative Matters and took shape with the help of guest speakers, who provided valuable insights and inspiration.
Spanning two terms, the project involved careful planning, collaboration, and hands-on work. From selecting materials to considering artistic processes, students engaged in every step, ensuring that their artwork was both meaningful and impactful. This multifaceted journey taught students more than just painting techniques - they learned about formation, location, and spacing to ensure visibility and impact. Students experimented with colour theory, learning how different shades evoke emotions and balance elements within a piece. They reflected on the audience, purpose, and intention behind their art, adding depth to their creations. Symbolism played a significant role, with students incorporating elements representing their thoughts and the wider themes of the piece. The project was a valuable lesson in artistic techniques, planning, and collaboration.
The success of the art project was greatly enhanced by the contributions of guest speakers. Bronwyn (Community Waitākere) and Natasha (MPHS) took the students on a field trip to a local park, where they made hands-on connections with their environment. The students matched colour wheels with the local flora and fauna, gaining a deeper understanding of the natural world around them. This experience helped them choose colours and themes for their artwork that reflected tūrangawaewae.
Clem, another guest speaker, enriched the students' knowledge by speaking about the local history, including both pre- and post-colonial generations. He emphasized the therapeutic nature of art, stating, "Art provides a form of rongoā," highlighting the healing and reflective aspects of the creative process. This perspective resonated deeply with the students and guided them in their artistic endeavours. Richard Killeen, a renowned artist, was also used as artistic inspiration, encouraging the students to experiment with form and composition.
The unveiling event was a momentous occasion, filled with excitement and pride. Students eagerly shared the creative process and the outcomes of their artwork with caregivers and guests. The vibrant installations were the centre of attention, and the students’ enthusiasm was palpable as they described their artistic journey. One caregiver noted how one of the installations stood out brilliantly against the green background, highlighting the students' skill in selecting colors that complemented their surroundings. The event buzzed with discussions about the collaborative efforts among the young artists, showcasing the teamwork and cooperation that went into creating the stunning pieces.
Mandy from Creative Matters, who guided the students throughout this journey, expressed her admiration for the journey the students had been on. She mentioned one of her favourite aspects of the experience being “the confidence the children gained". The students' newfound confidence was evident as they proudly explained their artwork and the inspirations behind it.
This event not only celebrated the completion of the art project but also marked a significant achievement in the students' educational journey, reflecting their hard work, persistence, creativity, and the invaluable artistic lessons they learned along the way.
The Creatives in Schools project has left a lasting impact at Henderson Valley Primary School, despite funding cuts leading to its discontinuation. Nine students delved deeply into art, creating two stunning installations that now serve as educational tools and storytelling inspiration. These works symbolize their connection to place, or tūrangawaewae, and fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment. The school plans to find alternative ways to integrate art into the curriculum and to support similar projects, ensuring the legacy of creative education continues.
The art project at Henderson Valley Primary School has demonstrated the transformative power of creative expression and the importance of connecting students with their environment and history. The installations will continue to inspire and educate future generations, underscoring the lasting value of artistic endeavors in education.