Celebrating creativity and community
The sunlight filters through the window illuminating a glorious bunch of flowers on an old kitchen table. Inside, the basement studio is a hive of activity … heads are bowed over colourful creations as members of this group settle into their mahi.
The programme has been running since 2002 and now has Lizzy at the helm, ably assisted by Christine.
Lizzy is a textile artist from Kūaotunu; used to working alone in her studio, she is beaming as she introduces the artists. It’s obvious she is enjoying herself as much as they are.
“This programme is such a success,” says Lizzy, “We’re not always in this space, we also run day trips. Last week we visited Nigel Sparrow to do some fabric marbling and we’ve also been to Pete Sephton to screen-print T-Shirts.”
Christine once came along as an artist herself, looking for support through a difficult time, and now is giving back. “I love to help people and love the socialising and companionship we all enjoy.”
Rebecca brings Suzy, who has survived an aneurysm, and they both help out and join in … everyone is equal. “It’s a great artistic and social space. I’ve met people here who I never would have met otherwise, neat people,” says Rebecca. Everyone mucks in and helps with the dishes and keeping the room tidy.
Artists in the Making is funded by the Ministry of Social Development, and also receives funding from The Ministry for Culture and Heritage for outreach programmes in Coromandel and Whitianga, in order to help remove barriers to participation such as poverty, mental health challenges, disability or social inequity.
But it’s the artwork that speaks for itself. It is joyful and free.
I asked the artists what they like about being part of the group.
Shaun says, “I like coming here to make pieces, I love making stuff and I’ve been coming here since I was at school.” Shaun is working on a magnificent mosaic of a Ford.
Kieran says, “It’s strong friendship and the trips.” He is concentrating hard on his fun and impressive Thomas the Tank Engine mosaic.
Brian is a prolific painter and has an eye for colour. His painting of a bittern was inspired by a trip to the local museum and shows delicacy and fine observation skills. His smile tells everyone that this is his happy place.
Bev is legally blind and has been coming to the group for 20 years. “To me it is a home away from home,” she says. “There’s always a cup of tea and plenty of chat.” Bev has also suffered a stroke and speaks highly of this group and the Blind and Stroke Foundations which have given her so much support.
It’s run on the smell of an oily rag but it’s obvious what a difference this group is making in the lives of these fabulous artists. If you know anyone who would benefit from joining this group, tell them not to be shy and check out the details below.
Artists in the Making is held Wednesdays and Fridays in Arthur Street with an additional ‘taught’ session on Mondays at the C3 Church and outreach programmes in Coromandel town.
Contact Coromandel Independent Living Trust on 07 8668358
words by Deli Connell
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