Pop Culture Meets Local Pride: MCHL’s Youth Space Transformed
A once blank wall in Te Whanga, MCHL’s Youth Space has been transformed into a bold, colourful mural that’s turning heads and creating buzz and it’s all thanks to the creative teamwork across the Manawatū District Council.
A new mural designed with rangatahi (youth) in mind, blends striking imagery from comic book favourites like Wolverine and Deadpool to astronauts and gaming icons with subtle nods to Feilding landmarks such as the Makino Bridge and clock tower.
The mural was brought together and arranged by Barry McGoldrick, graphic designer at Manawatū District Council, using artwork from Morgan Goodwin, Deanna Gunn, and other creative sources to form a cohesive design that speaks to youth.
“It’s such a cool space now, and it makes an amazing backdrop for photos,” said Deanna Gunn, Makerspace Specialist and contributing artist. “I’ve already seen people using it that way, which is exactly what we hoped for.”
While the space is intended for youth the hidden gems within the mural catch admirers of all ages taking on the scavenger hunt like challenge to appreciate each piece of art, and local landmarks hidden within.
Creativity and inspiration continue throughout the space with a quote wall on a neighbouring wall features bold, uplifting messages in various typefaces, while a nearby grey wall showcases the space’s core values:
- Whanaungatanga – Community and Connection
- Manaakitanga – Care and Respect
- Rangatiratanga – Leadership and Empowerment
- Kaitiakitanga – Guardianship and Responsibility
- A Mangōpare (hammerhead shark) design on the glass symbolises strength and resilience.
“Our goal was to build more than just a room. We wanted to create a space with identity, creativity, and mana,” said Joey Mckechnie, Youth Engagement Coordinator. “Something that feels uniquely suited to the rangatahi using the space.”
The collaboration of artists, vision and values are at the heart of this welcoming space where rangatahi can feel a sense of belonging, relax, socialise, and see their world reflected around them.
To learn more about the Space For Youth | Manawatū Community Hub Libraries
Joey Mckechnie, Deanna Gunn, and Morgan Goodwin are all smiles as they proudly show off the new mural in the youth space.
Contributing artist Morgan Goodwin sits beside her vibrant fish illustration, part of the new mural.
Deanna Gunn, Makerspace Specialist and digital illustrator for Serapheir, sits in front of her artwork on the mural, pictured just above her head.
The Youth Space now features a new quote wall. A fresh addition to inspire.