A Creative Dream Realised
Jessie Rose, Whangārei's most in demand art teacher, has a special place in her heart for her Dreamer art students.
“We’d never reach these kids normally,” said Jessie. "That’s what makes this so meaningful. This partnership brings art and its power to those who may never have had the chance.”
Tucked away in a quiet studio in Te Kamo, something pretty special unfolds each week. Ten lucky Dreamers from Tikipunga High School are given the chance to step out of their usual schedule and into a world of colour, creativity and connection at a private art class with local artist and teacher, Jessie Rose.
Jessie’s intimate classes are in demand for adults and children alike in Whangārei – but thanks to a strong partnership with I Have a Dream, Tikipunga High School and the dedication of our incredible Navigator Rose Welsh, a new group of Dreamer get access to this coveted class each term
The programme is so popular with the High School Dreamers that Rose has to work with the school to decide who can attend.
“We’ve got to share the opportunity around,” Rose says. “It’s a privilege to be here and we want Dreamers to make the most of it.”
Jessie says having the IHAD group here is the highlight of her week, as they are the most well-behaved and respectful class she has.
“Rose is such an amazing facilitator. She puts in so much work to bring the Dreamers here, and every week I’m greeted by smiling faces walking through the door.” Jessie says.
When you walk into the studio, you feel a real sense of wairua. Jessie says it’s a place where Dreamers can breathe, relax and settle into their creative flow.
“I’ve heard of one Dreamer who came to school just for this class. And even if there’s a teacher-only day, their whānau make sure they get here because they can see how much it means.”
The class isn’t just about art; it’s a space for connection. The Dreamers come from different year groups and areas of the school, and in this creative environment, they build friendships and a sense of belonging.
“It’s like watching a little community form,” Jessie notes. “Like-minded kids coming together, building confidence and tuning in to their creativity.”
One of the Dreamers, Jazmine, echoed this sentiment, saying she loves the class because it allows her to work on her art skills and learn new things. “It’s kind of chill here, so you can come and relax,” she shared.
For Jessie, being a Dream Partner has stood the test of time. “I always see the change in them. They grow and they create amazing work.”
From an I Have a Dream perspective, Rose adds “Thanks to our Enriching Local Curriculum (ELC) funding, IHAD has been able to financially and logistically support this opportunity. It has helped reduce barriers for some dreamers, engage our neurodiverse dreamers and at the same time develop amazing strengths and interests within our Rangatahi.”
This programme has even inspired wider support. During a visit from I Have a Dream supporters, The Wright Family Foundation, they were so impressed it led to the foundation sponsoring 25 additional students throughout Whangārei.
“We’d never reach these kids normally,” said Jessie. “That’s what makes this so meaningful. This partnership brings art and its power to those who may never have had the chance.”
Each term, participating Dreamers have the opportunity to showcase their creativity alongside Jessie’s other students in an exhibition.
In term 2, Jessie’s younger students were exhibited at the same time as her adult students for the first time at her studio in Te Kamo and huge number of people turned out to view their work, which is also displayed below.
