North Shore Times (New Zealand)
Creative arts classes at Mairangi Arts Centre
The Mairangi Arts Centre is a thriving non-profit community arts centre on Hastings Rd.
A vibrant, community based visual arts education facility and exhibition venue, its mission is to educate and foster growth in the creative arts by providing access to and participation in the arts for people of all ages, backgrounds and levels of experience.
The centre offers an extensive range of art classes and workshops for adults, teens and children, and school holiday programmes for kids aged five to 14.
Term three art classes start from July 25, and there are still some spaces available. Beginners are welcome with weekly classes, evening sessions and weekend workshops available.
Classes include Photoshop and Lightroom for photographers with Gail Stent on Tuesday evenings, and introductory cast glass with Lou Pendergrast-Mathieson on Wednesdays. Also all types of painting styles (arcylics, oils, watercolour, pastels, life drawing etc), clay, pottery, mixed media, plus more. The selection is vast and diverse.
‘‘There is a strong social aspect to attending these classes,’’ acting manager Christine Currey says. ‘‘It’s a great opportunity for like-minded people to meet up, a chance to learn, and make connections with other creative people.’’
Membership is only $35 per year, per person. Members get to enjoy significant discounts to classes and at selected art suppliers. You’ll quickly reclaim your membership fee back.
Mairangi Arts Centre has recently launched a new website – www.mairangiarts.co.nz – where you can quickly and easily book classes online, and filter class selections.
A variety of exhibitions feature in the spacious and light gallery space. Right now the North Shore National Salon of Photography exhibition is in the Main and Hewson galleries, with free entry but koha is appreciated.
Mairangi Arts Centre is a wonderfully creative community space at 20 Hastings Rd. Phone 09 478 2237 or visit www.mairangiarts.co.nz. Open Monday to Friday 9.30am till 4pm, and weekends 10am till 2pm.