On 12 September, we proudly opened Brave Marks, a vibrant group exhibition showcasing the talents of local adults attending our term art classes. For many of the artists, this was their first ever exhibition—a milestone that made the celebration even more special. The opening was part of Adult Education Week in New Zealand and supported by ACE Aotearoa, celebrating learning, growth, and creativity in our community. The day started off with a bang, featuring speeches, laughter, and a walk through The Corridor Gallery.

The exhibition not only displays the artwork but also highlights the personal journeys of the artists—navigating challenges, discovering new skills, and achieving what once felt impossible.

Some of the stories from the artists and their families capture the spirit of Brave Marks:

“I look back at his schoolwork and the art he did in high school, where he had lots of support. But it’s nothing compared to what he’s creating now. It’s so nice that he has a space where he can focus, be himself, and really thrive.” – Thomas’ family

“I tried not to make the painting too busy, with too much going on. It’s been a challenge learning when to stop, because you can just keep adding and then it becomes too much. I was surprised, because I wasn’t expecting it to turn out like this. I hope people feel calm and enjoy the colours when they look at this piece. I hope to inspire others – don’t be afraid to start, because that’s something I was scared of too, making mistakes. Whatever you produce is your original.” – Clint

Brave Marks is more than an exhibition—it’s a celebration of courage, creativity, and community. We invite you to come along and experience the artworks that reflect not only skill and imagination but also the joy, growth, and resilience of our local artists.
Make sure you check it out – exhibiting until 8 October!