Girl’s winning artwork takes pride of place

A talented east Auckland artist has seen one of her creations take pride of her place at her school so it can be enjoyed by future generations.

As the Times has previously reported, Nicole Large, who at the time was in year 6 at Owairoa Primary School, was the overall winner of a nationwide competition late last year run by the Carus Commercial Painting Group which was open to schools across New Zealand.

Her winning drawing features native New Zealand birds working together to build a nest.

Owairoa Primary School art co-ordinator Liz Hewlett previously said pupils at the school who entered the competition were asked to create an A4-sized work that represents the school best and would also inspire and motivate every student.

“Alongside the mural entry, all entrants had to write a short statement explaining their mural.

“We’re so thrilled and proud of Nicole’s hard work and dedication to the arts.

“She’s leaving a lasting legacy at Owairoa for years to come.”

Nicole said her drawing depicts how working together can lead to something great or beautiful. In the design each bird is contributing, “just like humans would”.

“I’m hoping the mural will show children that teamwork is the best way to achieve a large task.

“It’s important to always remember how helping one another can be good for you, and the person you’re helping.”

She couldn’t believe it when she learned she’d won the competition.

“I can’t wait for the mural to be painted and I’m super hyped to be leaving a mark at Owairoa for future artists to be inspired by.”

Carus Group marketing manager Conor Lay said the competition saw the company run a nationwide campaign that involved sending activity books to primary schools around New Zealand.

“We received over 350 submissions from this competition and were genuinely blown away by the talent and creativity on display from the children.”

Nicole’s winning artwork has now been turned into a large eye-catching mural on a wall at her school by graffiti artist Jonny 4Higher.

The school says: “The transformation of her design from paper to wall has been an exciting journey for our staff and students, watching the artist bring her vision to life.”

Nicole, who is now in year 7 at Somerville Intermediate School, says she’s happy with the end result.

“It’s exactly like my drawing and looks amazing. I hope lots of other kids can be inspired and enjoy the new artwork.”

Jonny 4Higher says it was a great pleasure to visit the school to paint Nicole’s mural.

“The design … very cleverly depicted different native birds collaborating to build a nest, a lovely way to illustrate teamwork in a localised way.”

The school adds: “Congratulations to Nicole for her achievement! We are proud to have her artwork as part of our school’s environment, and we extend our thanks to the Carus Commercial Painting Group and graffiti artist Jonny 4Higher for making this opportunity possible.”