It’s time to support our young artists!
South and East Auckland kindergartens and primary schools have created art around the theme: Act Local – What's in Your Backyard? Help them shine by casting your vote.
The annual Eye on Nature Creative Arts competition, hosted by the Beautification Trust, invites local tamariki to get creative and produce original pieces that focus on the 2024 theme, making use of sustainable and re-purposed materials learning how to care for te taiao (the environment) around them.
The best works will be rewarded with cash prizes and art supply vouchers, for a total prize pool of $2,550.
With sponsorship from Auckland Council and the six southern local boards, this children’s environmental education programme is thriving in 13 schools and early learning centres across South and East Auckland.
Eight schools and centres in the Ōtara-Papatoetoe, Howick, and Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Boards are receiving a cheer of support from their communities.
Ōtara-Papatoetoe local board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia shares, “We know our youth and rangatahi are artistically talented, and we also know they are very concerned about environmental issues. This competition brings together their creativity and passion for the environment, to send a message to the rest of us adults, about Te Taiao, and the importance of protecting it for the next generation."
They will be showcasing their incredible artistic talent and eco-awareness at the Auckland Botanic Gardens in the upcoming school holidays.
Howick chair Damian Light says, “It’s wonderful to see local tamariki engaging in important issues like the protection and restoration of our environment. Their hope and determination to see a better outcome, combined with creativity, is beautiful and inspiring.”
The free exhibition officially opens to the public starting Saturday 28 September, and welcomes all visitors to place their votes to crown the People’s Choice Award.
Māngere-Ōtāhuhu chair Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich adds, “It’s fantastic to see climate programmes like this one boosting awareness and engagement in our schools—essential for our future leaders! Let’s get behind them and vote to support their efforts.”
The judges assess the artworks based on their interpretation of the theme, use of materials, the artist’s statement about their work, originality, innovation, construction and effort.
“Aotearoa offers one of the most diverse and unique environments in the world. By learning about the ecosystem around them, we inspire the tamariki and instil pride for our beautiful land,” says the Beautification Trust’s Community Programmes Manager, Sterling Ruwhiu.
“The tamariki explore the environmental impact that small actions can make to their surroundings,” she adds.
All entries will be displayed in the professional exhibition space at the Auckland Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre during the October school holidays.
Howick schools/centres:
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Cascades Kindergarten
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KiNZ Mission Heights
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Pakuranga Baptist Kindergarten
Ōtara-Papatoetoe schools/centres:
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Aorere Kindergarten
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Little Ones Garden Early Education Centre
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Mayfield Kindergarten
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Papatoetoe South School
Māngere-Ōtāhuhu school:
- Favona School
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