Pacifica Heartbeat is back with a difference

Six hundred Year 3-6 students will explore Pacific art this week as part of Pacifica Heartbeat, a collaboration between THE EDGE and Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki.

Pacifica Heartbeat

Overview

21 March 2011 - Six hundred Year 3-6 students will explore Pacific art this week as part of Pacifica Heartbeat, a collaboration between THE EDGE and Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki.

The students attending Pacifica Heartbeat will take part in three workshops exploring Pacific art and culture:

- Pacific dancing and drumming with tutors from the Pacific Arts Centre at the Aotea Centre
- Contemporary artwork at Auckland Art Gallery and making their own Pacific lei
- Creating a multi-school mural in Aotea Square with artist Marcus Winter.

At the end of the day, all students will meet back at Aotea Square to perform the Pacific dance they will have learnt earlier in the day. They will have the opportunity to wear the leis made during their Gallery experience.

THE EDGE Public Programmes Producer Bronwyn Bent says the partnership adds a new dimension to Pacifica Heartbeat.

"Pacifica Heartbeat has always been a popular schools programme and I think it's fantastic that the students can visit our neighbours at Auckland Art Gallery and be introduced to great Pacific and Pacific-inspired art."

"We're thrilled that the Mamas from the Pacific Arts Centre continue to be involved in Pacifica Heartbeat, giving the children a chance to learn from their elders."

"The Pacific cultures are an important part of Auckland's fabric and this programme gives students the chance to experience and participate in Pacific Island performing arts," she said.

Auckland Art Gallery Schools Programme coordinator Christa Napier-Robertson says the Gallery is thrilled to be able to work with THE EDGE and the Pacific Mamas on this project.

"Everyone involved feels this combined effort will give students an amazing experience of the depth of Pacific creativity today."

"This quality of experience would be almost impossible to create without our organisations working together so well in this way."

All event dates: Wed 23rd, Thurs 24th, Fri 25th, Mon 28th, Wed 30th March

ENDS

A photo opportunity is available on Friday from 1-2pm. If you would like to attend this, or for more information please contact:

Kate Orgias | Communications coordinator
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
Ph 09 307 7706 | Extn (40) 7706 | Mobile 027 291 9953
www.aucklandartgallery.govt.nz

Josie Campbell | Communications Manager
THE EDGE
Ph 09 307 5635 | Mobile 021 274 0318
www.the-edge.co.nz

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