Roadshow great way to deliver the arts

Under no circumstances could I lay any claim to artistic talent. It simply isn't part of my genetic makeup, but that doesn't stop me from being able to appreciate what I see.

In Wanganui we are fortunate to have an abundance of great artists, and this week a new generation of enthusiasts will no doubt have had an interest kindled. The Real Art Roadshow that pulled into Kai Iwi School allowed children from neighbouring areas and the local community to share in some artworks across a variety of styles. It is a bold initiative that is no doubt logistically difficult and costly to tour in this way. But the pleasure derived from the visits must surely make it all worthwhile.

No one would expect those who ventured inside the large truck and trailer unit to suddenly decide to embark on a career as an artist but a good many will have had a spark of creativity and appreciation awakened in them. From comments I heard, the debate about who liked which pieces and why was quite enthralling and was proof of the saying about art being in the eye of the beholder.

A civilised society can be defined in its artworks and appreciation of the creative process and interpretation. Wanganui is fortunate to have such a strong base of artists and a community to appreciate what they offer, such as the roadshow. The many galleries, exhibitions and the majestic Sarjeant and its collection are a testament to this, and it is no surprise that so many are attracted by, and participate in, the popular Open Studios.

It is tragic that people are choosing not to visit the Sarjeant because of the earthquake risk. To think of all those inquiring young minds with no outlet to fuel their new-found passion.

That this fine building and repository of so much fine art might close for any period or the collection be limited in accessibility would be a travesty.

Change of rounds

Change, they say, is as good as a holiday. Certainly in a newsroom, a few changes can help reinvigorate, introduce new ideas and lead to a better paper for you, our readers.

Many of you will have become accustomed to seeing certain names beside stories on particular topics.

Well, we have had a change around and altered the areas our reporters are responsible for.

We will still be there covering health, council, Maori affairs, court and all the other important rounds as we call them in the industry.

District health board and health matters will now be handled by Anne-Marie Emerson, who also picks up coverage of the arts. Emergency services will be the responsibility of Merania Karauria, while John Maslin will look after Wanganui District Council and business. Lin Ferguson will continue with education but will take over as our regional champion heading out into Rangitikei, Waimarino and South Taranaki to look at issues there.

Maori affairs will still be the domain of Laurel Stowell, who also lends a hand with council, rural and Horizons.

Our new reporter, who joins us from Monday, Aaron van Delden, will have his hands full with a range of topics including welfare, community and social issues.

If you know of something interesting that is happening or that deserves to be brought to light, call our main number, 349 0710, and ask for the appropriate person based on the guidelines above.

Feedback: ross.pringle@wanganuichronicle.co.nz