Creative Talks: David Veart Historian and Writer

Back by popular demand local historian David Veart takes us on a journey back to childhood. He explores the idea that toys are not just made for playing with, but they are also serious business.

In his book Hello Girls and Boys! David explored a few centuries of pocket knives and plasticine to take us deep into the childhoods of Aotearoa - under the eye of mum or running wild at the end of the section, with a doll in the hand or an arrow in the ear, hula hooping or assembling kitsets.

There’s Māori and Pakeha learning knucklebones from each other, young Aucklanders establishing the largest Meccano club in the world. This talk will revisit the toys, the crazes and playtimes and preoccupations of big and little New Zealand kids for generations.

The PumpHouse Theatre’s Creative Talks series aims to bring the community together with creatives to discover more about their process and what inspires them. Each event explores what goes on behind the scenes to create their unique art. There is something for everyone with an interest in the arts and what inspires and drives creativity.
The event is free with tea and coffee provided. Booking a seat on The PumpHouse website is recommended due to the limited number of spaces available.