Protecting Our Moana Through Artistry

As a Marine Biologist turned High School Biology teacher, Alissa Jane Dyer’s exhibition ‘Embracing the Tides: Protecting Moana’ tells a story of art, education, and purpose. Many of her exhibited paintings are inspired by her scuba diving and underwater photography, the exhibition sharing a clear message that we all have a part to play in protecting the moana (ocean) and our marine life. QR codes displayed beside her artwork share the painting’s story, images from Alissa’s dives, key environmental threats, and simple actions people can take to protect the subject. “Changing even one person’s behaviour will make a difference,” Alissa noted.

As a recipient of MDC’s Creative Communities Scheme Fund, Alissa is offering free workshops for local schools across the Manawatū District. As a teacher herself, she understands the financial pressures schools face. By removing cost barriers she’s creating an accessible, hands-on way for students to learn about caring for the environment. Held on Tuesdays throughout the exhibition period, student will create artwork using plastic and rubbish collected from local beaches. Through creativity, discussion, and questions, Alissa is giving discarded plastics a second chance at life, seeing tamariki create artwork that turns rubbish into a powerful metaphor for conservation and change.

Alissa’s talent is more than just artistic, but a lifelong mission to raise awareness, protect and care for our environment. MDC is proud to have supported Alissa through the Creative Communities Scheme Fund, sharing her amazing artistry and knowledge, nurturing and protecting our moana for generations to come.

MDC’s Funding Rounds are now open for applications until late March, including the Creative Communities Scheme Fund. Get involved, explore the available funding schemes, and consider which funding rounds might best suit your projects. To learn more or apply for a fund, visit: Community Funding & Grants | Manawatū District Council