Acclaimed alumnus Reuben Paterson guides students through Pat Hanly Creative Project

The experience was especially meaningful due to Paterson’s connection to Macleans College as a distinguished alumnus (Rutherford House 1987 - 1991).  His international success continues to inspire emerging young artists.  His work draws on both Māori and contemporary culture, while challenging traditional ideas of fine art.

During the workshop, Paterson shared a captivating story of the waka wairua (spirit canoe), which was spotted by Māori guide Sophia Hinerangi and her tourist group 11 days before the 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera. As he created an ephemeral artwork that moved and changed, students explored the role of storytelling in art and the idea that some works only exist in particular states for fleeting moments in time.

Students were also immersed in a recreated studio environment, with life-sized wall coverings depicting Paterson’s New York studio, where he has lived and worked for the past three years.

Throughout the day, students explored current exhibitions across the gallery through the thematic lens of ‘Ko au te taiao / I am the environment’, the concept guiding this year’s project. They also experimented with creative processes, including capturing images with thermographic cameras.