By Karena Martin - Pūkenga Manaaki (Mental Health)
For Mental Health Awareness Week in September, CARE Marlborough hosted an exhibition of mahi toi (artwork) made by its members – one of whom is Te Piki Oranga whānau Hinekura Omapii. Here is Karena’s pakiwaitara:
Hinekura has found art an excellent way to express herself. She says that creating her mixed-media piece, ‘Tapu Pounamu Taonga’, using clay and harakeke helped her “process grief in a healthy, gentle way”.
This was the first public exhibition that Hinekura has taken part in, and she now has the confidence to further extend her abilities.
Hinekura returned here from the North Island after about 14 years. She was previously my client and she remembered me and re-engaged once reinstated at Witherlea House in 2023.
Hinekura found out about CARE Marlborough via Witherlea House and joined not long after she came to Blenheim. She is a ‘joiner’ and likes to learn new skills.
Hinekura is involved with a few services locally and appreciates the kindness and mahi done on her behalf. In turn, we enjoy her company, independence and the hard work she does to achieve her goals.
Photo captions: Hinekua Omapii with her mahi toi ‘Tapu Pounamu Taonga’, made of clay and harakeke.
