Tremendous response to NZ film about children’s s struggles

“Tremendous” response to NZ film about creative children’s struggles

Shona Hammond Boys QSM says she has been overwhelmed by the response of the international creative audience at the Fifth World Children’s Festival to her book and an associated short film.

Shona was the winner of the World Children’s Award at the 5th World Children’s Festival hosted by International Child Art Foundation, held on the Presidents’ Park in Washington D.C. 30 June 30 – 3 July.

As the founder and director of the NZ Children’s Art House Foundation, said she was excited by the recognition accorded her work and that of the foundation during the festival held in Washington D.C.

‘The children of the world voted showing their recognition and appreciation of the concept of Children’s Art Houses in Community,’ Shona said

She said she received tremendous support for the film Oku Moe Moea when it screened at the New Zealand Embassy to invited distinguished guests and for the book during meetings at the festival.

The story highlights the important role art can play in nurturing children’s creativity. The film was directed by Shona and filmed around the Opotiki Children’s Art House and the associated book was published by BMS Books Ltd.

The acting NZ Ambassador to United States, Carl Worker, commented that he was proud of the beautiful portrayal of New Zealand and children’s creativity in the film.

The festival is held as an Olympiad every five years. This year heightened terrorist threats meant the festival was scaled down, but 84 countries participated in workshops and performances.

‘This award is voted for by the children at the festival, so it is showing their recognition and support for children’s art houses to continue and expand,’ said Shona.

The book and short film ‘Oku Moe Moea – The dream which is bigger than I am’ was launched at the festival and a screening at the New Zealand embassy in Washington.

Shona, who lived in Auckland for many years and is now based in Opotiki, will be discussing the options that have arisen, including offers to help in expanding the film to a full-length production.

The short film is available at the video distribution service Vimeo.com, go to:
https://vimeo.com/ondemand/artiam

The book can be ordered through booksellers and distributors or directly from BMS Books at www.bms.co.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media