Matariki theme inspires Aratoi’s school holiday programme

7 July 2011

Matariki theme inspires Aratoi’s school holiday programme

Children will get a hands-on, creative insight into a special time of year in the Maori calendar, in this month’s school holiday programme at Aratoi. Matariki is the theme of a series of workshops led by Carterton artist Tina-Rae Carter, for children aged six and upwards.

“Matariki, for me, is allowing the start of new beginnings,” says Tina-Rae. “It’s a chance to leave any hard times behind, celebrate, and make a fresh start. Nature has it's own way of moving us along, and I hope our artwork will be a reflection of this.”

In the first week of the programme, children will explore the meaning of Matariki, then design and make a clay tile inspired by what they’ve found out. Week two will see them making clay ‘hei matau’ (fishhooks), and weaving a band for them. They will also be able to glaze any tiles made in week one.

Matariki refers to the star cluster Matariki (the Pleiades or the Seven Sisters) which appears in our skies in early June, heralding a significant time in the Māori calendar. It is traditionally a time for reflection and preparation for the year ahead. A clear and bright star cluster is thought to indicate a warm and productive year ahead. The Matariki constellation stays visible in the eastern skies for 11 months.

The workshops run on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 19-21 July and 26-28 July, 2-4pm. The cost is $10 per day (including materials). Booking T: 06 370 0001.

ENDS

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