More than 100 people, including young families, friends and community members gathered at Katikati’s Art Junction on August 10 for the opening of an exhibition featuring local children’s artworks.
The Tūmanako – Children’s Artworks for a Peaceful World exhibition celebrates the hopes and aspirations of more than 100 local children and young people.
More than 80 artworks explore themes of peace, hope, inclusion and a world free from nuclear weapons, Katikati-based Tūmanako committee member Darinee Turnwald said.
“Tūmanako is a Māori word meaning ‘hope’, and the exhibition gives children and young people an opportunity to express their vision for a peaceful world through art,” she said.
The August 10 ceremony began with a performance by Katikati Primary School’s Kapa Haka group, who welcomed participants and helped open the event.
Western Bay of Plenty Mayor James Denyer spoke of the importance of hope at a time when conflict continues in many parts of the world.
“It’s amazing to see all your smiling faces here today. Tūmanako means hope and we really need that in the world at the moment,” he said.
Reflecting on the continuing presence of war, Denyer said he hoped people could find ways to resolve their differences peacefully. “Today is about the youth of Katikati and the Western Bay and being able to find joy and peace,” he said.
SGI New Zealand general director Kenric Ma spoke about the role each person can play in creating a more peaceful society.
“Peace is not something created only by governments or international agreements. It begins with each of us – in our thoughts, actions and words, and in the way we treat the people around us every day,” he said.
Some of the artwork made by Katikati children, exploring themes of peace, hope, inclusion and a world free from nuclear weapons. Photos / Supplied
Ma told the young artists that their artwork offered an important message to adults.
“Every child who has exhibited in this exhibition has something valuable to teach us,” he said. “Their artworks remind us that peace begins with empathy, respect, friendship and imagination.”
He thanked the children for sharing their hopes, saying their creativity and sincerity were an inspiration and a source of hope for the wider community.
The exhibition was organised by the local SGI New Zealand group in collaboration with the Art Junction and local schools. The opening brought together children, families, schools involved in the exhibition and the wider Katikati community.
Some of the artwork made by Katikati children, exploring themes of peace, hope, inclusion and a world free from nuclear weapons. Photos / Supplied
“For the young artists, the exhibition provides an opportunity to have their voices heard,” Turnwald said.
“For visitors, the collection offers a chance to see the world through the eyes of children and reflect on the kind of future they hope to create.”
The Tūmanako exhibition is open daily at the Arts Junction until Sunday, August 23. Members of the public are encouraged to visit for free and view the children’s artwork.