I just wanted to express my thanks for your support in assisting the project ‘Beyond the Walls’, a programme that was run and sponsored by the Auckland Art Gallery.

This would have not been possible without teachers relieving, letting students participate in the trips and approval from the Senior Leadership Team. 

The programme was born from the idea that art can connect people and serve as a catalyst for nurturing and strengthening communities. The students needed to create an art work responding to the theme Tōku Tūrangawaewae – my place to stand. Tūrangawaewae is a Māori concept that refers to a place of ancestral connection and empowerment, a place that someone can call home and where they feel a profound sense of belonging and identity. 

On Friday the 2nd of August the ‘Beyond the Walls’ exhibition opened at the Auckland Art Gallery. This was a historic moment as no student work has every been hung on the walls gallery beforehand.

I’m very proud that Wesley College was able to participate and be part of this shift and how the gallery space engages with its communities. The food was excellent and included palusami and hangi pies, catered by the famous Blue Rose Catering – we had some happy young men take big plates back to the dorm that night! 

The highlight for me was witnessing the whaanau engage with the works. One of the dads who didn’t really care too much about art had tears in his eyes when he saw what his daughter created and has now decided that he will turn the spare room into an art room for her. Sue Fisher of the Sue Fisher Trust who funded this programme also mentioned the work of James Aholelei as a work that she found interesting. 

At Wesley College historically we are known for our sporting prowess but we know our students are so much more than that, they are also creative, and they are artists. 

‘Beyond the Walls’ is open until Sunday 18th August, Lower Ground Foyer. So if you have the chance please check it out!

Ms Louisa Afoa
TIC Art