Orakei School Art Collaborations

Every year Sofia collaborates on artworks with the children at Orakei School. Here are some of their experiences over the years...

October 28, 2011

Woven paintings collaboration between Sofia and 8-12 year old students at Orakei School

Sofia Minson on the experience:

"What a joy it has been to collaborate with 8 to 12-year-old kids from Orakei School. I think we've managed to create something uniquely kiwi. These three artworks entitled Papa, Moana and Tane are comprised of individual strips of canvas painted by the children, which I have woven and framed with driftwood from Ohope Beach. The concept of weaving evokes unity, with all of the children's diverse, vibrant strips of canvas coming together into an indivisible, complete artwork.

The kids' paintings are inspired by anything that is special to them - Maori and Pacific patterns, their favourite sports teams, video games, friends and family.

The children I collaborated with are smart with great senses of humour and even though they come from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds, a sense of unity has been cultivated at the school, a sense of whanau."

The Orakei School Art Exhibition and Sale on Friday 4th to Sunday 6th November will feature work by leading New Zealand artists alongside seven pieces which were produced collaboratively by Orakei students and artists.

Artists including New Zealand Art Guild president, Sophia Elise, and local leading artist Sofia Minson, have generously shared their ideas and inspiration with the children on how to work together to create fun and innovative art pieces.

Sofia Minson is one of more than 50 established and emerging New Zealand artists, including Michel Tuffery M.N.Z.M., Rae West, Belinda Wilson, Emma Wright and glass artist Peter Viesnik, who will be displaying works at the exhibition.

The exhibition will feature large-scale surreal visuals and oil paintings, which will be of keen interest to the investment buyer along with over 250 finely detailed portraits and landscapes - in both contemporary and classic style.

With prices to suit all budgets, from $50 to $12,000, the school hopes to raise funds towards building a state-of-the-art playground that the whole Orakei community will benefit from.

An exclusive Opening Night Gala with refreshments and music will be held in the school hall on Friday 4th November from 7:30pm. Gala night attendees will have the opportunity to purchase art in advance of the public viewing.

Tickets cost $30 each or $50 for two and are available by contacting the School Office 09 521 0657 or Myana 021 057 9726. Entry to the Exhibition on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th November is free of charge.