Visual Arts and Carving

The Visual Arts and Carving department has had an exciting start to the year. Our students have been diving right into their projects, displaying incredible enthusiasm and talent. This year, we’re thrilled to introduce Photography at Level 2 and 3. The students have been working diligently to gather all the skills and knowledge they need for success in the year ahead.

We’re also excited to welcome and introduce Mr. Leon Thomas to our department! As a professional photographer, Mr. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and expertise that is already making a significant impact on our students. His knowledge and passion for the art form are truly inspiring, and the students are grateful for the opportunity to learn from him.

Senior Painting - Creative Journeys in 2025

Our Senior Painting students at Level 3 are off to a fantastic start this year, currently working on their proposals and carefully selecting themes that will guide their creative journey throughout the year.

 

At Level 2, students are exploring their individual Visual Pepeha inspired by the work of renowned Māori artist Mr. G. This project allows the students to connect deeply with their cultural heritage and express their identity through a unique and personal artistic lens.

Meanwhile, our Level 1 students have chosen the overarching theme of Ihenga, the great Māori explorer, to support their imagery for the year. By delving into the life and adventures of Ihenga, the students will explore themes of discovery, journey, and exploration, translating these concepts into powerful visual artwork.

Cross-Curricular Marae Visit – A Journey Through Art and History

This year, our Senior Carving students, alongside the Year 11 Painting cohort, will have the exciting opportunity to engage in a cross-curricular Marae visit with the Technology department. The students will visit the Tangatarua Marae at Toi Oho Mai, where they will experience firsthand the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the region.

The highlight of this visit will be the exploration of the Ihenga Wharenui, a stunning meeting house carved by the renowned Te Arawa carver Lyonel Grant. This Wharenui is a masterpiece that not only demonstrates the incredible artistry of Rotorua's carving traditions but also celebrates the story of Ihenga, the great Māori pioneer and explorer. 

T-Shirt Art Competition – A Creative Collaboration with DCA Architects

We are thrilled to announce an exciting new opportunity for our talented Art students! This year, we are partnering with DCA Architects Darryl Church, a founding member of the company and an alumni of our school, to host a T-shirt design competition. Darryl, who has been a strong supporter of our school, has decided to integrate his long-standing tradition of the T-shirt design into a creative competition for our students.

This is a wonderful chance for our students to follow a professional brief, challenge their creativity, and come up with a unique design that captures the essence of DCA Architects. The winning artist will receive up to $500 worth of prizes – a fantastic reward for their hard work and talent.