Tradie tribute features in campus art video

You don’t have to look too far around WITT’s campus to spot Paul Rangiwahia’s artworks. Bold, brightly coloured and adorned with affirming text, Paul’s works all have the same deeper purpose – to enhance wellbeing and mental health.

WITT has just launched a video showcasing the extensive collection, drawing attention to its Kaupapa and core message - “to normalise conversations around mental health.”

“My art is about reminding people that it’s okay to feel, to think and to just be human,” says Paul (Taranaki, Ngāti Ruanui), artist and wellbeing advocate. “At WITT, I hope the work helps create opportunities for reflection, to encourage people to care about themselves and each other a little more and so that looking after your wellbeing is just part of the everyday vibe.”

Two of his more recent pieces are a tribute to tradies and their mahi – with wisdom drawn from the world of mechanics, sparkies and builders. His tradie-themed art on the outside of WITT’s M Block contains gems such as:

• ‘A good foundation makes all the difference.’
• ‘Just like a roadworthy and reliable vehicle, you need regular services and a mental W.O.F too’
• ‘Take a moment. Measure twice, cut once’

Paul’s work has gained iconic status in Aotearoa providing common sense messages that help get people thinking and talking about things that matter.

Joanah Phillips, Team Lead Te Puna Manaaki | Youth Guarantee Coordinator, says she hopes the short video will shine a light on the breadth and beauty of the artworks displayed throughout WITT’s buildings—both inside and out—and that it will be widely viewed and shared by students, staff, and the wider community. As well as showcasing the art, she wants people to “engage with it in a way that inspires them and empowers them to enhance their hauora—their overall wellbeing.”

“Art serves as a powerful catalyst for conversation, offering a constructive way to channel energy towards more positive experiences,” says Joanah.

The video and many of WITT artworks by Paul and other artists, including Shannon Novak, was made possible through Te Whatu Ora | Health NZ Primary Mental Health and Addiction Services funding.

Watch the video (made by Mad Media here: