• 
• 

Many years ago a dedicated group of local residents saw the need for a visual arts centre in Mairangi Bay and set about the long, arduous task of preparation and fundraising to make their dream a reality. Persistence and hard work were rewarded when approximately ten years later a former soccer club building was modified and officially opened as the Mairangi Arts Centre.

Since then the centre has grown almost beyond recognition, both in terms of the building-with additional art studios and gallery space, improved foyer, kitchen and artwork storage area - and the services the organisation offers. The art class programme has expanded and now affords a wide range of options to all ages and all levels of experience. The two galleries feature a busy schedule of frequently changing exhibitions, showcasing a variety of art forms from numerous cultures, groups and individuals from both within the community and throughout NZ.

The centre works co-operatively with many other organisations to give as many people as possible the opportunity for artistic expression and enjoyment.

To celebrate Mairangi Arts Centre's 21st birthday this year there will be a special, retrospective exhibition that will run from 28 May-23 June. Visitors to the gallery will be able to view a fascinating display of historical photographs documenting the organisation's beginnings and a collection of interesting written accounts of events during the early years.

At 2pm on Saturday 9 June there will be an afternoon tea in the centre's main gallery with talks and recollections by people involved with the centre at its inception. During the time of the celebrations there will be two exhibitions in the main gallery: the Mairangi Arts Centre Portraiture Awards exhibition (28 May-6 June) featuring two and three dimensional portrait artworks and the Mairangi Arts Centre Members' and Students' exhibition (9-23 June) which will include paintings and sculptures in a wide range of styles and media.

Mairangi Arts Centre's mission is to 'make access to and participation in the visual arts possible for people of all ages, backgrounds and levels of experience. The centre warmly welcomes all enquiries and provides an environment that actively nurtures and encourages everyone to discover and delevop their creative side.