Skip Content
Sid Thompson

Ōpōtiki residents are being offered the opportunity to learn how to use technology to tell their stories through art.

Te Wānanga o Aotearoa kaiako (tutor) Sid Thompson says art is an excellent way for people to tell their stories and express themselves and using technology can only enhance that ability.

“It’s another tool that adds to the strength of their story,” he says.

This is the first year the Toi Maruata L3 digital arts course is being offered in Ōpōtiki and Sid says it will help meet a need in the community.

“People have been asking for a course like it for a number of years.”

“The younger ones are looking for a different avenue to express themselves but it’s not just for young people, it’s for everybody, of any age.”

While some computer knowledge would be helpful, it’s not necessary, he says.

Students learn how to incorporate different digital mediums into their art and develop both their art and computing skills during the course, providing a pathway into further advancement in either subject.

“It could be video, photos, audio, words, anything really.”

He says it’s always interesting to see how students develop their stories and the emotions that can bring.

“It can be really powerful. A lot of stuff can come up, which is why we provide a safe space for them to learn in. We feel honoured in that space.”

The course uses industry-standard programmes such as Adobe Spark, Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign.

 Back to news & events

Published On: 21 February, 2020

Article By: Tracey Cooper



Other Articles

  • 29 October 2025

    Raranga weaves culture and people together

    Yumi’s muka kākahu beautifully blends Māori and Japanese culture through raranga. Discover her inspiring journey with Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, from Kāwai Raupapa to Maunga Kura Toi, and how weaving has connected her to people, tikanga, and identity.

  • 29 October 2025

    Toi tauira to kaiako series – Desiree Moat-Rangikataua

    Heretaunga toi kaiako Desiree Moat-Rangikataua shares her inspiring journey from tauira to kaiako at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. Discover how raranga, te reo Māori, and a reconnection to culture shaped her path and why she encourages others to embrace growth and teaching.

  • 22 October 2025

    From the bush to a PhD - Fabian's journey of faith, family, and learning

    Fabian C Mika’s journey from the ngahere of Rūātoki to earning a PhD is a powerful story of faith, whānau, and mātauranga Māori. Discover how his passion for Ringatū, te reo Māori, and education led to academic success and a legacy of learning for future generations.

  • 20 October 2025

    Mahi toi exhibitions 2025

    From raranga to whakairo, Te Wānanga o Aotearoa toi tauira are showcasing their mahi toi in free exhibitions across Aotearoa from September to November 2025. Discover stunning works of Māori art and creativity, and celebrate the journey of tauira from certificate to degree level.