The Weekend Sun
Friday 20 September 2019
41
Spark releases Kupu 2.0 to support Te Reo Māori in the classroom
Kupu, the breakthrough mobile app that helps people learn Te Reo Māori by translating photos of objects around them can now be utilised across more schools in Aotearoa thanks to the launch of a new version optimised for tablets and desktops. Spark’s Māori strategy lead Lisa Paraku says the launch of a desktop and tablet friendly version comes off the back of overwhelming requests from teachers nationwide who have been wanting to use the app across a broad range of devices within schools. 5
“Art is everything I know, everything I love, and I just want to help people through creativity,” says Mira. “I started The Art Lounge NZ because I wanted to create an art space that was welcoming and also give the opportunity to other artists to exhibit and share their passion, their stories. “I run monthly exhibitions and events for the local community and Tauranga visitors. I’m passionate about connecting people through creativity. Every month we run exciting events that are free and open to everyone to enjoy and connect through art and have a social gathering. “I also offer the opportunity to artists across all of New Zealand to exhibit and share their stories through art.” The gallery interacts with the community by designing
programmes such as inspirational art talks, workshops, exhibitions and events that inspire, encourage, educate and entertain while recognising excellence in the visual arts. Mira aims to connect everybody with art through her gallery. “What I’m trying to establish is to offer art to everybody, not just the people who want to collect, I want to offer art to people so it can bring them joy. I am proudly supporting New Zealand made art and all our gifts are also authentic and handmade. We have different pricing, different packages for people who would like to pay art off with interest-free art loans,” she says. “I would like to encourage the locals to visit the CBD that is
pretty much alive despite all the works! There are so many wonderful, passionate and hard-working people with superb businesses here that despite all the challenges we all are facing, we are not giving up and making the city vibrant and exciting place to be. “I’m trying to bring joy to people’s lives through art and also help creative people.” Multicultural Connection will be running at The Art Lounge, 117 Willow St, from September 20 to October 10. The opening night is this Friday, September 20, from 5pm. Entry is free. For more information, visit: www.theartloungenz.com Cayla-Fay Euinton
“The enhancements mean more teachers will be able to use Kupu as an educational tool and readily incorporate Te Reo Māori learning into their lessons with the use of smart technology something we know our tamariki have embraced,” says Lisa. Orewa College middle school teacher Joel Langlands has been a user of Kupu since its launch and is pleased to hear the new enhancements will mean more teachers will now have access to it.