‍Upcoming Programmes:

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25 July: Air Dry Clay Midwinter Christmas Ornaments (with Svetlana Mickell)

In this session, artist Svetlana Mickell (originally from Russia, now proud to call New Zealand home) will guide you through the playful process of making simple Christmas ornaments using air dry clay. Create a beautiful brooch or a hanging decoration for your tree – whatever your imagination dreams up. No experience needed, just bring your sense of colour and fun. Come along and enjoy a relaxed, crafty morning!

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About your facilitator: Born in Russia, Svetlana Mickell moved to New Zealand in 1999. She discovered her passion for art later in life and is entirely self-taught. Without any formal training in painting or crafts, she began exploring  creativity by studying ideas and techniques online and developing her own  unique artistic approach. Over the years, while working various jobs, Svetlana dedicated her free time to painting and creating handmade art. As she gained more time to focus on her passion, she expanded her skills across many media. She learned both wet and dry felting using New Zealand wool, explored ceramics and kiln-fired  clay, and later discovered polymer clay and air-dry clay, developing a particular love for sculpting. Svetlana’s work is guided by curiosity, imagination, and a genuine joy in creating. Her artistic journey has been one of continuous learning, experimentation, and self-discovery. She finds inspiration in everyday life and enjoys transforming her ideas into unique handmade pieces. One distinctive aspect of Svetlana’s work is that she does not give titles to her paintings. She believes that art should speak directly to the viewer’s  heart, allowing each person to find their own meaning and emotional  connection within the piece. For Svetlana, art is created from the heart. The greatest reward is knowing that her work brings happiness and inspiration to others. Sharing her creations and seeing people connect with them is what makes her happiest as an artist.

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1 August: Rooted Storytelling & Pacific Dance (with Mamehe Movement)

In this session, participants will explore the joy of movement through a gentle and inclusive introduction to Polynesian-inspired choreography and storytelling. We will learn how rhythmic gestures and Pacific stories can help us reconnect with our heritage and the land we stand on. This workshop is designed for all generations and abilities, focusing on a ""Mamehe"" concept, i.e. the belief that the resources for our wellbeing are already within us. No previous dance experience is required; we simply invite you to move with us and discover how collective dance can support a healthier, more connected way of living.

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8 August: Artist Talk with Lisa Walker, ONZM

Join us for an artist talk with Lisa Walker ONZM, one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most influential contemporary jewellers, in conversation with her exhibition HEAD at Te Atamira. This talk will last 60 minutes. As this event is also open to the general public, please note it's earlier start time than our normal Saturday Arts Social time slot - we will get things underway with Lisa at 9:30am. We have set 15 seats aside for our Saturday Arts Social members to attend this talk, so if you are keen to reserve one, please email Eric on programmes@teatamira.nz.

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15 August: A Morning of Harmony (with WASABI Choir)

We're thrilled to welcome the WASABI Choir to our Saturday Arts Social. Founded in 2015, this vibrant community choir brings together voices from all backgrounds through the joy of singing. Led by the wonderful Meg Hirata, their repertoire is a rich blend of English, Japanese, and Māori songs—from pop and folk to traditional melodies. Whether you're a music lover or just looking for a warm and uplifting way to spend your Saturday morning, come along and let their harmonies brighten your day. No singing required—just bring yourself and enjoy the music!

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22 August: Plant Care and Potting Workshop (with QT Plant Guys)

In this session, participants will learn/explore indoor plant care, why the right potting mix matters, and how to properly repot a plant to keep it healthy and thriving. Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to build confidence with their plants.

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29 August: Connect & Thrive Wellbeing Workshop (with Headlight)

In this session, we invite you to take a moment to check in with yourself, and connect with others. Led by our facilitator through the lens of her own lived-experience, this interactive, conversational session invites you to reflect on mental wellbeing tools you already possess, and practice how to access them in a way to best benefit you as well as support friends and family.

Together we will:

• Share what ‘wellbeing’ means to each one of us
• Reflect on how the ‘5 ways to wellbeing’ show up in our lives
• Practice wellbeing and connection through simple exercises
• Create an artistic representation of a pathway to wellbeing for you (and your community) to Connect & Thrive

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Drop-in sessions, registrations are not required. Free for ages 60+.

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For further information, please call 027 180 02868 or email hello@teatamira.nz.

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Thank you to Central Lakes Trust for their support in bringing creativity to our community.

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