A dawn blessing of the new Creative Space building at Raglan Old School Arts Centre took place on Saturday morning by kaumatua Russell Riki.
About 50 people gathered to celebrate the opening of the first part of the Creative Space building – the new clay shed, the kiln room and the Raglan Lions Room. The building was opened by long term Raglanite, Ralph Blanchard who cut the ribbon.
Raglan Arts Council Chair, Rodger Gallagher, said that the decision to build a new building was made 7 years ago at a community meeting held in the Old School.
He said, “Since then the journey has been long and hard. So today is an amazing milestone. We have only got to this point due to the contribution of everybody here today and many others. Many have donated money, time and services. So a big thank you to all of our members and volunteers. And all of our donors and funders. And the many tradies who constructed the building.”
He added, “The journey continues with the next step being the plastering of the lobby and stairs. We still need more money so the fundraising also continues. All along the journey, Susanne has been the energy source that kept fundraising going. I also want to mention her husband Andreas who has been there with her all along the way.”
The formal part of proceedings was followed by a light breakfast.
The new rooms are already being used for after clay arts school workshops, evening classes and cay shed member nights.