Inspiring student art displayed

Around 200 artworks by Mahurangi College students and professional artists will be displayed at the Warkworth Hotel from August 4 to 6.

The annual Art In August exhibition will showcase an eclectic range of work from paintings and photography to pieces modelled in clay.

Visual art teacher Nyree Norrington says the exhibition promises to be a true celebration of artistic expression, passion and dedication.

“Our students’ unique vision and creativity will undoubtedly leave visitors awe-inspired,” she says. “It is also an opportunity for people to engage with established artists and art enthusiasts from the local community, and to network and foster connections in the art world.”

Norrington says the exhibition provides students with the opportunity to participate in a real world exhibition with a variety of exhibiting artists, including Arlin Sukarlin, Carolyn Costly, Fiona Ehn, Kim Boyd, Nikki Robertson, Pauline Gough and Talia Russell.

She says Year 9 students chose birds for their subject and have created beautiful watercolour images with real personality.

“Some of our Year 10 students have worked with the ceramic business Clay Friends and created stunning pieces, and

Chess movie fundraiser

our seniors have work from their NCEA, including work by Year 13 photography students based on their experiences at local businesses Middle Earth Tile company, Southern Paprika and the Puhoi Pub. Entry to the exhibition, which is upstairs at the hotel, is free.

Chess enthusiasts and others are invited to the screening of a New Zealand film with a chess theme on August 11, a fundraiser for the Mangawhai Chess Club. Released in 2014, The Dark Horse is described as “an inspiring true story based on the life of a charismatic, brilliant but little-known New Zealand hero and chess champion Genesis Potini. Despite having to face challenges on his own, he finds purpose teaching chess to the children in his community in the hope of helping them avoid a life of crime and violence.” Potini is played by Cliff Curtis (Once Were Warriors, Whale Rider, Boy). The 5.30pm event at Mangawhai Movies aims to raise funds to help the club team take part in the Chess Power NZ Nationals in October. The club meets at the Mangawhai Tavern on Tuesday afternoons. All levels and ages are welcome, although under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Contact Tina on 021 689 988.

Piano, Violin, Viola & Cello

Saturday, 26 August 2023 at 4pm