An exhibition of murals by Katikati Open Air Art and Ranger Studio students.
“We want to make creativity accessible to everyone.”
Over the past few months, Jess Ellis from Ranger Studios has been working with two groups of local teenagers at The Arts Junction in Katikati; learning new techniques, playing with a variety of materials and investigating relevant topics. The classes are an Katikati Open Air Art initiative, with funding support from the Creative Communities Scheme. “We discussed important subjects and focused on connection, looking at how art is an important form of communication and how we could use art to highlight points for discussion and connection with the younger generation,” says Jess, workshop tutor and facilitator. “We investigated a new art material every week while discussing sustainability and our place in the world; our final result was two full panel paintings for the local community.
“The programme was developed with limited impact on the planet and focusing on growing creative skills, technical art making knowledge and providing space to learn and reconnect with the world around us. We developed skills in creative thinking, which helped us push the ideas for each of the paintings. The groups designed two very different paintings, both aesthetically and topically; but at the core of both designs is what is important to them and what we need to hear,” says Jess.
“The younger generations are yelling out the importance of sustainability and looking after our planet. We had in-depth discussions on changes that needed to be made, environmental issues that are surrounding us and how art can be used to highlight the need for balance. Balance was also a key world that popped up with the other group; balance between hype, consumerism and reality.
“This workshop series was an interesting dive into the creative minds of younger generations of our local community. Please look, challenge and listen.”
Visit the Carlton Gallery at The Arts Junction, 36 Main Road, Katikati. Open Monday-Friday 9am-4pm, Saturday- Sunday 10am-2pm.
