I think I started at Mapura around 2007 so I have been coming for at least 16 years.

Sian likes creating colourful patterns. “I draw random shapes and then colour them in. Sometimes I draw pictures of things into the pattern.”

“Painting pictures of my soft toys and animals and people I know. I also like making things out of cardboard like my cardboard cathedral” , says Sian.

Sian likes her art being exhibited. “I really liked it when my picture of the bearded lady was in the IHC awards and I went to Wellington.”

Sian likes Mapura, being with friends and “Doing pictures of whatever I choose”

“Just being there - Mapura is a comfortable and friendly place to be. The tutors are always cheerful nice and sometimes funny.”, says Sian.