Vivid art pieces created by special needs “superpower” students at Nukutere College are set to go up in a two-day “silent” auction which starts today.

The unique exhibition is a collaboration of intuitive works by 13 students who have completed between two to three art pieces each.

The art programme offers a platform for the students to express themselves and celebrate their uniqueness, and was initiated by local artist Shane Andrews, who employs his artistic talent to bring a glimmer of hope to these young people.

Terina Teiri-Karati, the teacher aide, said: “I’m actually quite excited, looking at their art pieces it’s quite awesome to see how much they have developed throughout the year.”

“This is an opportunity for the kids to celebrate and showcase their hidden talent, their superpower.”

The special art project started at the beginning of the year, tutored by Andrews.

Teiri-Karati said Andrews initially introduced the children to fundamental tasks such as colouring pictures, and then gradually transitioned them to using paint on canvas.

“Initially, when the students started some would just use one colour and now they are confident in mixing and blending colours and utilising different material,” she said.

Student Elijah Nootai eagerly shared his enthusiasm for his paintings, which he described as focusing on “flowers, trees, and AC/DC (the rock band)”.

Kayden Ponga and Eden Tipokoroa expressed their happiness regarding their art work with their beaming warm smiles and cheerful eyes.

Members of the public are welcome to view the exhibition today from 1pm to 3pm at the Nukutere College Inclusive Education class, or tomorrow from morning to 3pm when the auction will close.

Bidding for each art piece starts from $50, a percentage of the funds raised will go towards the students and the rest towards the development of the programme, purchasing art supplies and canvas to continue the course in 2024.