Aratoi, Wairarapa Museum of Art and History is delighted to be awarded three grants in support of their Education programme which supports free education sessions for students across the Wairarapa.
The Education Grants from Masterton Trust Lands Trust, Steadfast NZ Foundation and TG Macarthy Trust enable Aratoi to continue to offer their school’s programme for all Wairarapa tamariki in 2021. Director Susanna Shadbolt is delighted with the result saying, “This last year has been challenging, but we recognise that arts pedagogy is a vital part of students’ education and must continue through these difficult times. As well as learning about our culture and identity and understanding how art is made and expressed, exploring art provides young people with ways to express emotion, especially when dealing with traumatic world events. Art is important in wellbeing and supporting positive mental health.”
Aratoi employs two part time educators, both from varied teaching backgrounds. Kate Devenny and Becky Bateman, both of which are trained teachers and have worked within the education sector for 20 years between them. Both bring a different set of skills to the role - Kate being a trained art teacher, while Becky is science and history driven.
“Our educators are the heart of our Museum; they bring tremendous levels of enthusiasm and passion into their sessions which allows children to understand and feel excited about art and learning. They are constantly trying to find new ways to connect with our community and offer new experiences.” Shadbolt muses.
“Our Educators are skilled at creating links between objects and practical activities, so students can take what they have learnt from the session and put it into practice. Every session has an art making element to it which helps children understand the process of art as well as trying something new.
This year, school students have explored traditional weaving techniques, lino cut printing, collage and how art and science combine through interactive holiday programmes based around Matariki.”
Museum support from the Masterton Trust Lands Trust dates back to the 1890s. Barb Roydhouse, Chair of the Board says, “Institutions such as the Masterton Trust Lands Trust, Steadfast NZ Foundation and TG Macarthy are an invaluable sponsor for the Wairarapa community. We record their support in our annual accounts and reporting, and we publicly state their generosity.”
Education sessions start up again in Term 1, February 2021. Education sessions are FREE to students and are available Mon - Thurs during Term time 10am - 2pm.
For more information: Susanna Shadbolt, Aratoi Director: 06 370 0001
