Art memorial made in loving memory
"[The artwork] provides a space of contemplation for those left behind where they can reconnect with the legacy of those who have passed from our kura wha¯ nau. "Kaitaia College principal Jack Saxon
A special service was held at Kaitaia College earlier this month to unveil a new memorial art installation, honouring students, whanau and staff who had passed away.
It was a particularly poignant date, being the first anniversary of the death of the college’s inspirational 2017 head girl Te Amohaere Rudolph. Her parents Vince and Annie Rudolph, along with wha¯nau, were especially touched by the new memorial.
Also in attendance were family representatives from the Buckingham, Kennedy, Lippel and Spaans wha¯nau who also lost family members associated with the college over the last two years.
Head girl Te Ao Marama Murray and head boy Sam Yates unveiled the piece, before Michael Withiel blessed it.
The design was created by Ahipara ta¯ moko artist Te Ruawai Tua.
The mural has the wings of an angel, which symbolises love, care and like the comfort that the wings of a mother bird provides for her hatchlings.
Much like a korowai covers and upholds the wearer, these wings offer support, comfort and resiliency to those left behind.
On the wings are two designs, one a traditional Maori one, and the other a mandala pattern.
Maanaki Hoepo, student senior council spokesperson, said t the memorial signifies a gathering place where people from all cultures, religions and walks of life can come together and be one as a whanau and to keep the memory of those who have died alive.
“We all miss those who are no longer with us, but as William Penn once said, ‘For death is no more than a turning of us over from time to eternity’.”
Principal Jack Saxon said the kaupapa was a student led initiative designed to honour the fallen.
“It provides a space of contemplation for those left behind where they can reconnect with the legacy of those who have passed from our kura wha¯nau,” he said.
The inscription reads, “Te tohu whakamahara i nga Kahukura — This is for those that have passed, their vision and protection will live with us forever.”
The college wished to thank artist Te Ruawai Tua and the graphic design and production team from Signs of Life.