Year 9 students have contributed to an art installation in Owairaka Domain to mark Matariki 2017.
A series of hand-made ceramic tiles are hung are groups of three from tree branches near the entrance to the Domain, and left to spin the breeze. Around them are artworks by other local schools.
Head of Visual Art Mr Bryn Corkery said MAGS was asked to contribute by the Albert-Eden Local Board. Local designer Ron Crummer put the installation together.
The images on the 90 tiles reflect New Zealand symbols such as birds, Maori patterns, the sky and stars. Matariki celebrates the coming of the Maori New Year, represented by a cluster of stars seen only in mid-winter called the pleiades.
Mr Corkery said that as Mount Albert Grammar played a large part in the local community, it was important that it take part in the installation. “The aim is for the event to grow in the future, and become a highlight of the Mt Albert calendar.”
He credited the student leaders of the Matariki Sculpture Group, Arien Okan and Gia man Tran Quai, who developed a good understanding of the processes involved with the school kiln and may set up a school ceramics club as a result.
The artworks will remain in place on the mountain until Monday, July 10.