Matahui School students have again contributed to the annual Tūmanako Project, creating artworks that share their hopes for a peaceful world. Through creativity, tamariki and rangatahi express their vision for a brighter future.
Launched in Wellington in 2015 to commemorate the 1945 nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the event has since grown and is now held at multiple locations across New Zealand. This year’s theme is based on the Whakataukī (Māori proverb): Kotahi te kākano whakaaro, he nui ngā hua o te rākau houhou rongo - One seed of thought grows the forest of peace.
Mary Woods, Matahui School’s Principal, said that participation is more than creative expression for the students and that the project's values reflect the school's approach to education.
“We believe education is about more than academic achievement. It is about nurturing young people who are kind, caring, respectful, and empathetic, and who understand the impact their actions can have on others.”
This year marked the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and their effects continue to be felt by survivors, their families, and their communities.
“As we witness conflict and war across the world, these anniversaries remind us that peace can never be taken for granted,” Woods said.
The project encourages students to look beyond their own experiences, consider how their actions affect others, and better understand people with different experiences and perspectives.
Woods said the school is proud to take part in Tūmanako each year and see how students interpret its themes through their artwork.
“Their participation reflects not only their creativity but also their growing understanding that every individual can make a positive difference.”
“By remembering the past, we inspire our children to build a future in which peace, respect, and compassion are at the centre of our communities,” Woods said.
This year's student artwork was exhibited at The Arts Junction in Katikati, alongside work by other young artists. The exhibition also featured images by internationally acclaimed photographer Jeff Brown of the Matahui School Guardians of the Forest School programme. The photographs are available for purchase through the school or on Trade Me.
