The annual national secondary schools’ Ringa Toi Student Exhibition has opened at Te Papa in Wellington, showcasing the artwork of ākonga with a focus on Toi Māori and Pacific art.
“The New Zealand Qualifications Authority is delighted to coordinate Ringa Toi, which celebrates talented young artists working towards NCEA,” says Jann Marshall, NZQA Deputy Chief Executive Assessment.
The exhibition contains artwork from secondary school ākonga around New Zealand, who are working towards achieving NCEA Levels 1 – 3. Artworks exhibited include:
- Toi Wharepora (contemporary and traditional weaving forms)
- Toi Whakairo (carving)
- Toi Matihiko (digital print where the reproduction processes have been completed by computer)
- Toi Matatuhi (printmaking such as intaglio)
- Toi Waituhi (paint, ink, and drawing)
- Toi Matarau (shaping and fashioning)
- Toi Whakaahua (photography with no digital manipulation).
The Ringa Toi Student Exhibition is open to the public from 10am to 6pm every day until Friday 29 September, at Te Papa, 55 Cable Street, Wellington. There is no charge for entry.
“Toi Māori provides an important outlet to celebrate te ao Māori, and we are delighted that ākonga will be able to see their work exhibited at Rongomaraeroa Marae inside Te Papa - an iconic national venue,” Jann Marshall says.
“For the first time, Ringa Toi also puts a focus on Pacific artworks, recognising the similar journeys of Māori and Pacific people.”
“Recognising these young artists is significant for their whānau and kura, showing there are real opportunities to be recognised and celebrated as Toi Māori and Pacific artists,” Jann Marshall says.