Rangatahi Teenagers

It’s only been a week, but under the guidance of artist Otis Frizzel, young Wauki Paniani has finished a massive 3D mural of the face of Jesus.

Jodeci Pomana with his mentor Rongotai Lomas

Wauki is part of an art project for a group of fifteen and sixteen year olds who’ve been excluded from mainstream education. Each Rangatahi or teenager is paired with an artist for the week to create a new work.

Joseph Vainui and his bonafide  graffiti art

Kahurangi Manuel has been quietly enjoying her Tukutuku weaving under the eye of fibre artist Shona Tawhiao. Joseph Vainui has discovered a talent for legitimate graffiti art while Jodeci Pomana has created his first digital work.

Kahurangi  Manuel and her tukutuku panel with  mentor Shona Tawhiao

 Nga Rangatahi Toa Creative Project Director Sarah Longbottom says the youngsters may be troubled but they’re amazingly talented, and the week long project can transform their lives.

For Spectrum David Steemson watches everyone at work and goes to their exhibition opening.