Francine Spencer is a multimedia artist and Arowhenua representative. She lives on her whānau land at Te Umu Kaha, Temuka, and studied Māori Visual Art at Toihoukura in Gisborne.

Fran joined the Friends because of her love of art and her desire to support Aigantighe. She also believes it is important to include Māori voices and perspectives.

She is especially proud of the Friends-supported children’s art project and enjoyed seeing art through the children’s eyes.

Fran values the way the Friends support both new and established artists from the community.

“Mā pango, mā whero, ka oti te mahi.” 

This means that by working together and combining different strengths, people can achieve their goals.