In 2002 Lyn, an art teacher made redundant by falling rolls in her area at that time, took up the call from the New Zealand Children’s Art House Foundation to be the Co-ordinator and start an Art House in Putāruru.
The first Art House began in the rooms above Ray White Real Estate on Tirau Street opposite BP. When competition for market rental space became more than the art club could afford Lyn had to move the art club and so the second site was found in Neal Street in the old Bakery shop, it was there for about 4 years until the cost of the lease became too much. Lyn had to move the club once more and find another new site. Once again generous supporters of the children’s art club appeared and Helen and Dave Rennie offered the club the use of their large disused orchard shed on Arapuni Road at a nominal rent, from where the club operated out of until the property was sold when the Rennie’s retired to Hamilton. Once more Lyn had to relocate the Art Club to the old Carter Holt Harvey / Buttermilk site opposite Bunnings on Princes Street. Lyn recently renovated her garage into a permanent art space, which is where out art clubs are now held.
For 15 years this club has provided art enrichment for the children of the South Waikato, putting creative play and club friendship high on its agenda alongside community involvement and child focused art activities.
Putāruru Children’s Art club meets 1-2 afternoons a week, and also during the school holidays. Over the years there has been a steady flow of children attending the art club. With the generous support of parents and the community Lyn has been proud to provide a “House of Dreams” for these children and be there to offer support for the creative endeavors and achievements of these wonderfully creative and imaginative children.
The Art House Rule - "Love Art And Be Kind to Eachother