Community elder celebrated
Bright and colourful new murals have been painted outside the Cannons Creek Opportunity Centre in Porirua East. Among the five artworks is a dedication mural to interim manager Poppy Daymond. The Cannons Creek local is well known in the community through her tireless work with the centre, and has been involved behind the scenes for 12 years.
Local artist Chris Apisai in front of the mural dedicated to community stalwart Poppy Daymond for her efforts in the community.
Recently the community came together at the Opportunity Centre for a formal unveiling.
Local artist Chris Apisai collaborated with Poppy on her ideals and values.
Apisai took those values and included them in the major mural piece.
Included in the mural are caricatures that reflect her cultural background and include angels signifying Christianity. Ms Daymond’s favourite colour is purple and the mural reflects that, she adds, “We are one big family in the creek, we have a beautiful identity here, and with the help of the PCC through Graffiti Management coordinator Trev Mason and Chris creating the mural we have something we can all enjoy”.
“Through the years it’s been a joy and programmes we run such as the holiday programme is excellent for our community as well in the sense that the children who came many years ago have grown up and now their moko’s (children) are coming to our holiday programme and have been painting their murals here as well”.
The Council also installed separate artworks painted by Jamie Betham, Malenia Farimo, Lee Daymond, Fonzo Sami-Pili, as well as Ms Daymond.
Mana MP Kris Faafoi who cut the ribbon to the wall says the artwork is a tribute to her long-standing efforts in the community.
From left artist Chris Apisai, PCC Graffiti management cordinator Trevor Mason, Labour MP Chris Fafoi and community elders and children finish blessing the murals.
Poppy Daymond (left) with her latest holiday programme group.