Pacific Mamas Come To The North Shore!

Pacific Mamas Come To The North Shore!

Mairangi Arts Centre, a community-based art gallery and art school on Auckland’s North Shore, recently celebrated the opening of ‘Island Time’ exhibition, a colourful vibrant display of Pacific Island tivaevae (quilts). The exhibition was officially opened by Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse and was organised in collaboration with Waitakere Pacific Arts & Cultural Centre.

Having the opportunity to display tivaevae is a privilege as they are considered precious by the families to whom they belong . They are valued both because of the huge amount of time invested in making them and also because they are heirlooms to be passed on to future generations. Traditionally tivaevae can be made by one woman but more commonly they are made by a group of women with the creative process then becoming an opportunity to socialise, catch up on news & cement bonds within the community. Many hours are spent creating the tivaevae which are a riot of colour and involve a variety of intricate stitches. ‘Island Time’ exhibition also features skilful weaving – hats, bags & floral displays – by Pacifica mamas from throughout the Auckland region.

During the exhibition there will be opportunities for the public to learn more about Pacific Island Culture:

• Music, Drums & dance: Sat 24 Aug 11am-1.00pm History of music, drums & dance in the Pacific Islands-demonstrations & hands on experience
• Cook Islands Tivaevae: Sat 31 Aug 10am-1.30pm Cook Islands Tivaevae – meanings behind patterns & colours, includes demonstrations & basic hands on activity
• Weaving: Sat 7 Sept 2-5pm-history, demonstrations &creating basic items.

Workshops cost only $10 per person or $20 familiy (2x adults & 2x children) with the price including morning or afternoon tea.

‘Island Time’ will be on display until Saturday 7 September at Mairangi Arts Centre, 20 Hastings Rd, Mairangi Bay. 9.30am-4pm Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm Sat. Ph.478-2237, www.mairangiarts.co.nz

ENDS

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