Past Events
The Learning Connexion (TLC) has a long history of showcasing creativity and connecting students with the wider community through exhibitions, workshops, and special projects. Our events celebrate the talent of our students and tutors, and reflect our commitment to creativity as a pathway to learning, growth, and community engagement.
On-Site Events
Student Exhibitions & Open Studios
TLC regularly hosts student exhibitions and open studio events at our Lower Hutt campus. These events give students the opportunity to display their work to whānau, friends, and the public, and to gain feedback and experience presenting their practice in a professional context.
Highlights include:
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Student exhibitions showcasing painting, printmaking, ceramics, jewellery, sculpture, and mixed media
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Open studio days where visitors can watch live demonstrations and engage with creative processes
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Annual Kai & Korero events that strengthen connections among students, tutors, and the TLC community
Workshops & Demos
Throughout the year, TLC runs workshops and demonstrations for students, local schools, and community groups. These hands-on sessions cover a wide range of creative disciplines, from ceramics and bronze pouring to painting and mixed media, giving participants a taste of tertiary-level creative learning.
External Events
Huakina – Opens New Pathways for Prisoners (2019)
TLC curated Huakina – to open at Expressions Whirinaki, showcasing works by students from 14 prisons across Aotearoa alongside renowned guest artists including John Walsh, Wi Taepa, Nigel Brown, Shane Hansen, Dale Copeland, Sean Duffell, and Flox.
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Over 120 artworks were created in response to an identical wooden box, exploring themes of creativity, expression, and freedom
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Auctioned works supported Victim Support, linking art practice to community impact
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The exhibition demonstrated the transformative power of creativity for people in prison and the wider community
Touring & Collaborative Exhibitions
TLC students and tutors regularly participate in external exhibitions, including:
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The NZ Art Show & The Wellington Art Show, featuring original paintings and prints
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Collaborative showcases with community galleries and arts organisations
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National touring exhibitions of student work, including curated collections from Restricted Programmes
These events extend the reach of our programmes beyond the classroom, allowing students to engage with wider audiences and gain recognition for their creative achievements.
Why TLC Events Matter
Our events reflect TLC’s philosophy that creativity is for everyone. They:
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Support student growth and confidence
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Build bridges between communities and the arts
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Showcase the transformative potential of art in education, rehabilitation, and everyday life
Past events provide a lasting record of TLC’s impact and commitment to nurturing creative talent in Aotearoa New Zealand.