News
Taranaki Arts Trail 2017
June 2 – 25
by GALLERY DIRECTOR,
RHONDA BUNYAN
RHONDA BUNYAN
Percy Thomson Gallery is hosting the 2017 Taranaki Arts Trail exhibition from June 2 – 25.
The exhibition will feature one piece of work from all registered artists on the Trail.
It is an excellent opportunity for Trail visitors to view each artist's work to decide which studios they would like to visit.
More than 60 Taranaki artists will open their studios to the public on the weekend of June 10/11. Visitors will be treated to an up-close and personal experience. Whether it's a purpose-built studio, workshop or dining room table, their space is open to anyone who wants to lift the lid on how all types of art is created.
The exhibition will feature one piece of work from all registered artists on the Trail.
It is an excellent opportunity for Trail visitors to view each artist's work to decide which studios they would like to visit.
More than 60 Taranaki artists will open their studios to the public on the weekend of June 10/11. Visitors will be treated to an up-close and personal experience. Whether it's a purpose-built studio, workshop or dining room table, their space is open to anyone who wants to lift the lid on how all types of art is created.
New Plymouth photographer Derek Hughes captures natural beauty in his work.
There is a refreshingly broad spectrum of career stages, from the emerging artist through to the established and world-renowned.
The Trail also includes places of interest for anyone and everyone to pop in and visit.
The complimentary Taranaki Arts Trail booklets and maps are available at i-sites, cafes and galleries all around the country. The Trail is geographically divided into 4 trails covering the North, East, South and West of the province.
The Trail also includes places of interest for anyone and everyone to pop in and visit.
The complimentary Taranaki Arts Trail booklets and maps are available at i-sites, cafes and galleries all around the country. The Trail is geographically divided into 4 trails covering the North, East, South and West of the province.
Taranaki has recently been voted the number two destination in the world to visit by the Lonely Planet Guide so the Arts Trail is a great opportunity to experience the hospitality first-hand.
Right around the mountain there are so many studios to discover, and if last year is anything to go by, it will be hard to pick a favourite.
Percy Thomson Gallery will be open at the earlier time of 9.30am and close at 4.30pm on the Trail weekend.
All are welcome to the opening event here at the gallery Thursday June 1, 7pm.
Right around the mountain there are so many studios to discover, and if last year is anything to go by, it will be hard to pick a favourite.
Percy Thomson Gallery will be open at the earlier time of 9.30am and close at 4.30pm on the Trail weekend.
All are welcome to the opening event here at the gallery Thursday June 1, 7pm.
Stratford Art Society boasts 300 works on display
Stratford Art Society Members Exhibition
The Stratford Arts Society exhibition, opening this Friday, is a vibrant, exciting, and eclectic mix of artwork and tends to fill every spare corner we have.
This exhibition boasts approximately 300 works, most for sale, and showcases the diverse talents and skill-base of the group's members.
The Stratford Art Society plays a pivotal role in fostering the arts in the Stratford region and further afield. It organises workshops for its members and encourages social events where members can build relationships with other like-minded people.
The autumn exhibition is made up of a wide range of works including pottery, jewellery, prints, photography, original paintings, sculpture, fibre, textiles, woodwork and crafts.
Prices are always reasonable and individuality and creativity abounds.
This exhibition boasts approximately 300 works, most for sale, and showcases the diverse talents and skill-base of the group's members.
The Stratford Art Society plays a pivotal role in fostering the arts in the Stratford region and further afield. It organises workshops for its members and encourages social events where members can build relationships with other like-minded people.
The autumn exhibition is made up of a wide range of works including pottery, jewellery, prints, photography, original paintings, sculpture, fibre, textiles, woodwork and crafts.
Prices are always reasonable and individuality and creativity abounds.
Art society member Karen Waterson's Flying Free.
The society is enjoying continued vitality at the moment with increasing membership, with more than 200 members, and with interest from artists from as far afield as Wellington and the Waikato.
The group also supports and encourages artists, both emerging and established, at local, regional and national levels. Members are all ages, all backgrounds and a myriad of different styles and medium.
You are welcome to attend the opening event this Friday evening.
Have you visited Percy Thomson's Gallery's new retail shop, Percy's Place? It is located in the former KiwiBank premises in Prospero Place, adjoining the gallery.
The group also supports and encourages artists, both emerging and established, at local, regional and national levels. Members are all ages, all backgrounds and a myriad of different styles and medium.
You are welcome to attend the opening event this Friday evening.
Have you visited Percy Thomson's Gallery's new retail shop, Percy's Place? It is located in the former KiwiBank premises in Prospero Place, adjoining the gallery.
The boutique shop offers a diverse range of artwork, predominantly created by local artists, and has been hand-picked by the gallery director.
Much of the work is influenced by the local environment in which we reside. Mt Taranaki and local landscapes feature strongly, which is ideal for those wanting to send gifts overseas.
Most days one of the contributing artists will be on hand to chat with.
However, we are still looking for suitable volunteers who may wish to work a day or so per month. No retail background is required, just a friendly smile and the ability to engage with visitors. Assistance will be available from gallery staff.
Stratford Arts Society exhibition opening: 7pm, Friday, May 5.
Percy's Place is open seven days per week: Weekdays 10.30am-3.30pm, weekends 10.30am-2.30pm.
Gift vouchers are the perfect choice for those occasions when you want to give something special and unique, but are not confident about choosing art for another person.
Percy's Place gallery shop has pottery, photography, ceramics, jewellery, a large selection of scarves, felted garments, textiles, prints and an impressive range of original oil, watercolour and acrylic paintings.Much of the work is influenced by the local environment in which we reside. Mt Taranaki and local landscapes feature strongly, which is ideal for those wanting to send gifts overseas.
Most days one of the contributing artists will be on hand to chat with.
However, we are still looking for suitable volunteers who may wish to work a day or so per month. No retail background is required, just a friendly smile and the ability to engage with visitors. Assistance will be available from gallery staff.
Stratford Arts Society exhibition opening: 7pm, Friday, May 5.
Percy's Place is open seven days per week: Weekdays 10.30am-3.30pm, weekends 10.30am-2.30pm.
Stained glass lamps light up gallery
Illumination: Paul Burgham
Taranaki Daily News
Thursday April 20 2017
by TARA SHASKEY
Splashes of light throw rainbows of colour on the white walls at a Stratford gallery.
A kaleidoscopic paua, a carefully crafted lighthouse and an incandescent green flax plant featuring natural stone and pounamu beam in the space, as part of Percy Thomson Gallery's latest exhibition.
Illumination, by glass artist Paul Burgham showcases eight contemporary lamps ranging in size from 400 millimetres to nearly one metre in height and all are said to be inspired by a love of nature.
Thursday April 20 2017
by TARA SHASKEY
Splashes of light throw rainbows of colour on the white walls at a Stratford gallery.
A kaleidoscopic paua, a carefully crafted lighthouse and an incandescent green flax plant featuring natural stone and pounamu beam in the space, as part of Percy Thomson Gallery's latest exhibition.
Illumination, by glass artist Paul Burgham showcases eight contemporary lamps ranging in size from 400 millimetres to nearly one metre in height and all are said to be inspired by a love of nature.
The Eltham artist, who was born at the old Mount View Hospital in the small township, has spent the past 17 years enthralled in the art of glass lamps that has seen him make more than 30 of the hand crafted lights.
In his earlier years Burgham worked in the building industry but when the day-to-day strains of lifting and carrying materials became too much he moved on to lead lighting and copper foil work.
"Leadlights you do for windows and copper foil is for lights," he explained.
"There's the design, then I make the polystyrene moulds and put the glass on them and sort of build it up. And then I copper foil them and solder them," he said.
"It's quite a technical thing really."
In his earlier years Burgham worked in the building industry but when the day-to-day strains of lifting and carrying materials became too much he moved on to lead lighting and copper foil work.
"Leadlights you do for windows and copper foil is for lights," he explained.
"There's the design, then I make the polystyrene moulds and put the glass on them and sort of build it up. And then I copper foil them and solder them," he said.
"It's quite a technical thing really."
Water glass was a favourite medium, he said.
The pieces he has on display are a mixture of lights he has developed over the years and a couple of new pieces he created with the exhibition in mind.
Burgham, who also dabbled with the art of photography, said the lamps' vibrant colours usually inspired people's interest.
"Nowadays everything is so black and grey and so anything with a bit of colour, people love it."
Art Nouveau and Art Deco style and the Arts and Crafts movement had been a huge influence in his work, and Burgham credited his mum's teachings for his love of nature.
Burgham recently completed a one and a half year long commission for the design, creation and installation of seven new stained-glass windows at the Mary Phelan chapel at New Plymouth's Sacred Heart Girls' College.
He also worked on and laid 4000 mosaic tiles in two weeks for the murals featured at Eltham's public toilets.
The pieces he has on display are a mixture of lights he has developed over the years and a couple of new pieces he created with the exhibition in mind.
Burgham, who also dabbled with the art of photography, said the lamps' vibrant colours usually inspired people's interest.
"Nowadays everything is so black and grey and so anything with a bit of colour, people love it."
Art Nouveau and Art Deco style and the Arts and Crafts movement had been a huge influence in his work, and Burgham credited his mum's teachings for his love of nature.
Burgham recently completed a one and a half year long commission for the design, creation and installation of seven new stained-glass windows at the Mary Phelan chapel at New Plymouth's Sacred Heart Girls' College.
He also worked on and laid 4000 mosaic tiles in two weeks for the murals featured at Eltham's public toilets.
Chance to buy works at new store
Percy's Place Gallery Shop
"From a small acorn, great things will grow."
Rhonda Bunyan, director of the Percy Thomson Gallery, says the opening of Percy's Place, a boutique retail art store adjoining the gallery, is not only helping grow the area as an arts and culture hub, but will also help local artists extend their reach.
"Buying a piece of art from here isn't just about gaining an item of beauty for your home, but is also about supporting local artists."
"Prospero Place now houses the gallery itself, the library, a lovely coffee shop, the i-SITE and now this wonderful shop. They all complement each other beautifully."
Rhonda Bunyan, director of the Percy Thomson Gallery, says the opening of Percy's Place, a boutique retail art store adjoining the gallery, is not only helping grow the area as an arts and culture hub, but will also help local artists extend their reach.
"Buying a piece of art from here isn't just about gaining an item of beauty for your home, but is also about supporting local artists."
"Prospero Place now houses the gallery itself, the library, a lovely coffee shop, the i-SITE and now this wonderful shop. They all complement each other beautifully."
Rhonda says the art for sale in Percy's Place is all from Taranaki based artists, "so buying a piece of art from here isn't just about gaining an item of beauty for your home, but is also about supporting local artists continue to produce fantastic work".
The shop doesn't just contain items for your walls or tables, the artwork includes jewellery, clothing and accessories and even furniture.
"Art isn't just painting, and in Taranaki we are privileged to have so many wonderful artists who produce such a wide variety of work."
Every piece of art currently in Percy's Place was handpicked by Rhonda in readiness for the opening last Thursday evening.
"I wanted some very specific pieces. I approached artists who I knew had a good range of work, or who had a particular style that would suit the shop. Being a retail store, it was important to get a range of items, both in style and pricing. It had to be more than simply paintings on walls."
"Art isn't just painting, and in Taranaki we are privileged to have so many wonderful artists who produce such a wide variety of work."
Every piece of art currently in Percy's Place was handpicked by Rhonda in readiness for the opening last Thursday evening.
"I wanted some very specific pieces. I approached artists who I knew had a good range of work, or who had a particular style that would suit the shop. Being a retail store, it was important to get a range of items, both in style and pricing. It had to be more than simply paintings on walls."
The end result is a shop which is full of tantalising pieces just begging to be bought and given a new home, with several items ending up marked "sold" within the first hour of opening.
"As pieces sell we will be sourcing new items, so I am continuing to approach artists and to keep my eye out for fresh talent," says Rhonda.
She says Percy Thomson trustees have been "very supportive" of this new venture, and all feedback received so far has been positive.
"People are really excited to see us open the store, and have been full of praise for the standard and range of work on offer."
With artists themselves among the team of volunteer "store sitters", shoppers have a chance to sometimes talk directly to the person who created the piece they are purchasing.
"We are asking for more volunteers to help support us by manning the shop for us, you need no experience, just a love of beautiful things and art."
Percy's Place: Located next door to the Percy Thomson Gallery, Prospero Place.
"As pieces sell we will be sourcing new items, so I am continuing to approach artists and to keep my eye out for fresh talent," says Rhonda.
She says Percy Thomson trustees have been "very supportive" of this new venture, and all feedback received so far has been positive.
"People are really excited to see us open the store, and have been full of praise for the standard and range of work on offer."
With artists themselves among the team of volunteer "store sitters", shoppers have a chance to sometimes talk directly to the person who created the piece they are purchasing.
"We are asking for more volunteers to help support us by manning the shop for us, you need no experience, just a love of beautiful things and art."
Percy's Place: Located next door to the Percy Thomson Gallery, Prospero Place.
Shoe polish and food colouring start 50 year career that leads to exhibition
Margaret Scott: a Sense of Place
Taranaki Daily News
15 February 2017
by DAVID BURROUGHS
Shoe polish and food colouring were the only things Margaret Scott had to use when she first started painting in 1963.
"There was a Bernard Aris painting on the wall of our house because our family knew him as a Taranaki artist and he had come to stay with us for a while," she said.
"I just got the shoe nugget and mixed food colouring with it."
As soon as her father saw the painting, he went and bought her a set of oil paints which started her on a career that has spanned more than 50 years.
15 February 2017
by DAVID BURROUGHS
Shoe polish and food colouring were the only things Margaret Scott had to use when she first started painting in 1963.
"There was a Bernard Aris painting on the wall of our house because our family knew him as a Taranaki artist and he had come to stay with us for a while," she said.
"I just got the shoe nugget and mixed food colouring with it."
As soon as her father saw the painting, he went and bought her a set of oil paints which started her on a career that has spanned more than 50 years.
This month Scott opened a retrospective exhibition at the Percy Thompson in Stratford titled A Sense of Place, which features around 70 works from across her career, including the shoe polish image that started it all.
While some of the work is for sale, other pieces were borrowed back for the exhibition and Scott said it was difficult to put a number on just how many paintings she had made over the years.
"I stared off with about a hundred paintings for this exhibition and Rhonda Bunyan (director of the Percy Thompson Gallery) put me back to 70," Scott said.
"I stared when I was so young and I've done over 100 commissions and they've gone all over the world so it's amazing really," she said.
Scott said she was mostly a self-taught artist and had never been to art school.
"I was on the farm, when everyone went to bed I just sat down and started painting."
While some of the work is for sale, other pieces were borrowed back for the exhibition and Scott said it was difficult to put a number on just how many paintings she had made over the years.
"I stared off with about a hundred paintings for this exhibition and Rhonda Bunyan (director of the Percy Thompson Gallery) put me back to 70," Scott said.
"I stared when I was so young and I've done over 100 commissions and they've gone all over the world so it's amazing really," she said.
Scott said she was mostly a self-taught artist and had never been to art school.
"I was on the farm, when everyone went to bed I just sat down and started painting."
Looking through Scott's work, it's easy to see the various phases she went through, from bush scenes and "goat girls" to paua shells and city scapes.
Some of the paintings show places that have since changed or disappeared, such as the memorial and crossroads at Auroa.
"The bowling club is no longer there, it's sort of moments in time that have now passed on," Scott said.
"Things are different, I think that's whats so good about paintings is they're moments in time that have happened, you'll never see that again, the man will still be on the monument but the cross roads have changed."
Scott trained as a teacher before she practised her art while raising a family and working on the family's dairy farm in South Taranaki.
She now works as a full time art tutor from her studio in Oakura.
"The education part of it is really important to me because I feel that what I've got I want to give to people, if I've got this knowledge I need to get it out there," she said.
Some of the paintings show places that have since changed or disappeared, such as the memorial and crossroads at Auroa.
"The bowling club is no longer there, it's sort of moments in time that have now passed on," Scott said.
"Things are different, I think that's whats so good about paintings is they're moments in time that have happened, you'll never see that again, the man will still be on the monument but the cross roads have changed."
Scott trained as a teacher before she practised her art while raising a family and working on the family's dairy farm in South Taranaki.
She now works as a full time art tutor from her studio in Oakura.
"The education part of it is really important to me because I feel that what I've got I want to give to people, if I've got this knowledge I need to get it out there," she said.
Scott shares more than 50 years of artistic expression
Margaret Scott: a Sense of Place
Taranaki Daily News
January 20 2017
by KATH BROWN
A retrospective exhibition spanning more than 50 years of Margaret Scott's painting career will open at the Percy Thomson Gallery on February 3.
There are more than 70 original paintings in this exhibition. The first one she painted in 1963 as a teenager with white food colouring and shoe polish.
January 20 2017
by KATH BROWN
A retrospective exhibition spanning more than 50 years of Margaret Scott's painting career will open at the Percy Thomson Gallery on February 3.
There are more than 70 original paintings in this exhibition. The first one she painted in 1963 as a teenager with white food colouring and shoe polish.
Margaret Scott puts the finishing touches to her painting Tropical Garden, one of the triptych to be exhibited in her Retrospective exhibition.
"I was really desperate to start painting so this seemed to be the best option at the time," said Scott, "and it did convince my father to go and buy me oil paints." She is amazed this work has survived all these years.
Other early works provide a variety of styles that Margaret has experimented with over the years. The cubist period in the 1980s were an exciting development for her.
Other early works provide a variety of styles that Margaret has experimented with over the years. The cubist period in the 1980s were an exciting development for her.
Originally when Rhonda Bunyan, the Percy Thomson Gallery director, approached her, Margaret put together a list of a 100 paintings, many of which she would have had to borrow back from their owners. However, Bunyan and Scott have had to seriously prune back the number because of the size of some of the works and not to cause overcrowding on the walls.
"Ultimately the decision is Rhonda's as she knows how she wants the exhibition to look," said Scott.
A feature of the exhibition is Tropical Garden, three metre long, 500 mm deep triptych that will take up one entire wall in the gallery.
Scott really enjoys painting the flowers that grow in her garden and tries to paint how they grow in their natural setting with large flowers in the front receding to larger foliage of tropical plants in the background.
The exhibition opens at 7pm on Friday, February 3 and runs until the February 26.
"Ultimately the decision is Rhonda's as she knows how she wants the exhibition to look," said Scott.
A feature of the exhibition is Tropical Garden, three metre long, 500 mm deep triptych that will take up one entire wall in the gallery.
Scott really enjoys painting the flowers that grow in her garden and tries to paint how they grow in their natural setting with large flowers in the front receding to larger foliage of tropical plants in the background.
The exhibition opens at 7pm on Friday, February 3 and runs until the February 26.
Toss Woollaston art collection on show near artist's family home
Woollaston: The Wallace Arts Trust Collection, 1931 — 1996
David Woollaston remembers offering advice to his artist uncle on how to paint properly.
As a youngster on the family farm, he would accompany Toss Woollaston out to sketch when he came to visit, and he wasn't impressed with his uncle's work.
"I used to think he was terrible, I used to try and teach him, I'd say to him 'this is how you do it.' He was pretty good, he just humoured me. My idea of a painting was to draw it like a photo," he said. "That wasn't Toss at all."
As a youngster on the family farm, he would accompany Toss Woollaston out to sketch when he came to visit, and he wasn't impressed with his uncle's work.
"I used to think he was terrible, I used to try and teach him, I'd say to him 'this is how you do it.' He was pretty good, he just humoured me. My idea of a painting was to draw it like a photo," he said. "That wasn't Toss at all."
A large collection of the paintings which didn't impress his young nephew back then are currently on show at Percy Thomson Gallery in Stratford.
A selection of Toss Woollaston's works from the Wallace Arts Trust Collection opened on Friday and runs until January 29.
David Woollaston was invited to speak about his famous uncle at the opening.
He and his wife Lynette Woollaston have many fond memories of the artist, who visited them often at the family farm where they still live at Toko.
Toss's ashes were scattered on the farm after his death and a chimney from the original farmhouse remains as a memorial.
The couple's home looks out across the valley to Bayly's Hill, a local landmark that Toss Woollaston painted many times.
A selection of Toss Woollaston's works from the Wallace Arts Trust Collection opened on Friday and runs until January 29.
David Woollaston was invited to speak about his famous uncle at the opening.
He and his wife Lynette Woollaston have many fond memories of the artist, who visited them often at the family farm where they still live at Toko.
Toss's ashes were scattered on the farm after his death and a chimney from the original farmhouse remains as a memorial.
The couple's home looks out across the valley to Bayly's Hill, a local landmark that Toss Woollaston painted many times.
One of his paintings of the hill hangs in their home, along with a sketch of his mother that Lynette discovered hidden behind another picture, seconds before she consigned it to a fire during a clean-up some years ago.
"He used to come up here at least once a year to see his father - my grandfather was 90 when he died - and to do his painting," David said.
"He was obsessed with that hill. He didn't use an easel, he stood out there with a sketchbook."
He didn't climb it very often, just painted it many times.
"He had a different way of looking at things. Once I asked him why it [Bayly's Hill] had lines on it. He said when God made the earth, he ran his fingers down the sides of those hills."
Uncle Toss enjoyed bickering in a fun way with his parents, and winding his mother up, David recalls.
"He was quite a funny guy, with a personality that was mischievous. He liked to shock people, he'd sometimes say things he didn't actually believe just to get a reaction. He didn't like the obvious route - he'd choose the less obvious. He didn't like straight lines, he didn't like things that were perfect."
"He used to come up here at least once a year to see his father - my grandfather was 90 when he died - and to do his painting," David said.
"He was obsessed with that hill. He didn't use an easel, he stood out there with a sketchbook."
He didn't climb it very often, just painted it many times.
"He had a different way of looking at things. Once I asked him why it [Bayly's Hill] had lines on it. He said when God made the earth, he ran his fingers down the sides of those hills."
Uncle Toss enjoyed bickering in a fun way with his parents, and winding his mother up, David recalls.
"He was quite a funny guy, with a personality that was mischievous. He liked to shock people, he'd sometimes say things he didn't actually believe just to get a reaction. He didn't like the obvious route - he'd choose the less obvious. He didn't like straight lines, he didn't like things that were perfect."
Diverse art for exhibition
Stratford Art Society Members Exhibition
The Stratford Press
Wednesday 23 November 2016
by RHONDA BUNYAN
Percy Thomson Gallery is awash with a range of interesting and diverse artwork for the November Stratford Arts Society Exhibition.
In fact, there are more than 300 artworks on display, most for sale.
Wednesday 23 November 2016
by RHONDA BUNYAN
Percy Thomson Gallery is awash with a range of interesting and diverse artwork for the November Stratford Arts Society Exhibition.
In fact, there are more than 300 artworks on display, most for sale.
This popular event presents a wide range of works including pottery, jewellery, prints, photography, paintings, sculpture and fibre works just in time for those Christmas purchases.
Prices are always reasonable and individuality and creativity abounds.
Prices are always reasonable and individuality and creativity abounds.
The Stratford Art Society is enjoying continued vitality at the moment with increasing membership, and now more than 200 members, and with interest from artists from as far afield as Wellington and the Waikato.
The groups also supports and encourages artists, both emerging and established, at local, regional and national levels. Members are all ages, all backgrounds exploring a myriad of different styles and medium.
It is a safe environment for first-time exhibitors who may feel a little nervous about presenting their work to the public. However, the friendly and helpful support of the society allays any fears and newbies get a great feeling of satisfaction when seeing their work on display.
Call in before closing day, Sunday, December 4 at 3pm.
The groups also supports and encourages artists, both emerging and established, at local, regional and national levels. Members are all ages, all backgrounds exploring a myriad of different styles and medium.
It is a safe environment for first-time exhibitors who may feel a little nervous about presenting their work to the public. However, the friendly and helpful support of the society allays any fears and newbies get a great feeling of satisfaction when seeing their work on display.
Call in before closing day, Sunday, December 4 at 3pm.
Colour unites new exhibitions
Colour Explosion, Colour and Form, Colour for the Soul
The Stratford Press
Wednesday 12 October 2016
by RHONDA BUNYAN
Three exhibitions with vibrant energy and dazzling colour as their central theme open at Percy Thomson this Friday, evening at 7pm.
Taranaki Patchworkers and Quilters (TPQ) lead the charge with a group of 'challenges' under the umbrella Colour Explosion.
Wednesday 12 October 2016
by RHONDA BUNYAN
Three exhibitions with vibrant energy and dazzling colour as their central theme open at Percy Thomson this Friday, evening at 7pm.
Taranaki Patchworkers and Quilters (TPQ) lead the charge with a group of 'challenges' under the umbrella Colour Explosion.
This includes the Aotearoa Quilters' biennial travelling challenge exhibition, Flight, comprising 20 quilts. This was won by Jeanette Gillies, art quilt designer from Central Otago and twin sister of local textile artist Jennifer Patterson.
Local quilters have also risen to the challenge, creating 12 x 12 art quilts, 20 x 15 art quilts and a textile on canvas section. Most of these will be offered for sale.
Come On Board with Textiles was organised to give students, artists and the public an opportunity to show their creative and crafting skills by mounting on a framed canvas.
Taranaki ceramic artist Anthea Stayt is guest artist for TPQ. Her exhibition is titled Colour & Form. The award-winning ceramicist has created a number of patchwork-style pieces especially for this exhibition.
Come On Board with Textiles was organised to give students, artists and the public an opportunity to show their creative and crafting skills by mounting on a framed canvas.
Taranaki ceramic artist Anthea Stayt is guest artist for TPQ. Her exhibition is titled Colour & Form. The award-winning ceramicist has created a number of patchwork-style pieces especially for this exhibition.
Anthea creates original hand-built ceramic forms using stoneware paper clay.
Her forms are decoratively finished with layers of brushed on oils. By layering and painting in this manner, Anthea creates a unique finish to her bold and contemporary sculptural works.
The community gallery will host a collaborative exhibition by Auckland artist Nemesh and Taranaki potters Kathryn Gates and Barbara Nicholls.
Born in Yugoslavia (Serbia), and now living in New Zealand, Vjekoslav Nemesh has been a professional artist since 1984.
He began drawing at an early age with an interest in comics, which progressed into more detailed and graphic representations.
In his early 20s a schoolmate commissioned him to create a large oil painting, and that has been his choice of medium since.
Her forms are decoratively finished with layers of brushed on oils. By layering and painting in this manner, Anthea creates a unique finish to her bold and contemporary sculptural works.
The community gallery will host a collaborative exhibition by Auckland artist Nemesh and Taranaki potters Kathryn Gates and Barbara Nicholls.
Born in Yugoslavia (Serbia), and now living in New Zealand, Vjekoslav Nemesh has been a professional artist since 1984.
He began drawing at an early age with an interest in comics, which progressed into more detailed and graphic representations.
In his early 20s a schoolmate commissioned him to create a large oil painting, and that has been his choice of medium since.
He began drawing at an early age with an interest in comics, which progressed into more detailed and graphic representations.
In his early 20s a schoolmate commissioned him to create a large oil painting, and that has been his choice of medium since.
Nemesh says the 'overwhelming magnificence of nature's creation' inspires him to explore the depths of his soul, where conscious meets unconscious.
Nemesh has participated in more than 300 group exhibitions in New Zealand and overseas and has had more than 50 solo exhibitions in the former Yugoslavia, Sri Lanka, United States and New Zealand.
Barbara Nicholls has been involved in pottery for the past 30 years. While keen on all facets of working with clay, Barbara relishes the energy and thought processes involved in wheel throwing.
Barbara focuses on glaze techniques and reduction firing in a gas kiln and is currently experimenting with porcelain and traditional style oriental reduction glazes, such as copper red.
Kathryn Gates first connected with clay more than 30 years ago when she attended classes in Invercargill.
"I channel my creative energy by developing forms on the wheel, especially platters and bowls, using high-fired stoneware and porcelain clay bodies. I particularly like working with porcelain, adding texture and colour."
Kathryn decorates her work using Chinese-style glazes, and experiments with ash, copper and barium. Reduction firing in a gas kiln to a temperature of 1300C creates a variety of effects.
The exhibition runs until November 6.
In his early 20s a schoolmate commissioned him to create a large oil painting, and that has been his choice of medium since.
Nemesh says the 'overwhelming magnificence of nature's creation' inspires him to explore the depths of his soul, where conscious meets unconscious.
Nemesh has participated in more than 300 group exhibitions in New Zealand and overseas and has had more than 50 solo exhibitions in the former Yugoslavia, Sri Lanka, United States and New Zealand.
Barbara Nicholls has been involved in pottery for the past 30 years. While keen on all facets of working with clay, Barbara relishes the energy and thought processes involved in wheel throwing.
Barbara focuses on glaze techniques and reduction firing in a gas kiln and is currently experimenting with porcelain and traditional style oriental reduction glazes, such as copper red.
Kathryn Gates first connected with clay more than 30 years ago when she attended classes in Invercargill.
"I channel my creative energy by developing forms on the wheel, especially platters and bowls, using high-fired stoneware and porcelain clay bodies. I particularly like working with porcelain, adding texture and colour."
Kathryn decorates her work using Chinese-style glazes, and experiments with ash, copper and barium. Reduction firing in a gas kiln to a temperature of 1300C creates a variety of effects.
The exhibition runs until November 6.
Adam Portraiture featured at Percy Thomson Gallery
The Adam Portraiture Award 2016, and Elemental: Merv Turner & Margaret Foley
Opunake & Coastal News
Friday 23 September 2016
by ROLLAND MCKELLAR
A feature of the latest exhibition at the Percy Thomson Art Gallery, Stratford was the presence of the winner Andre Bronnimann, who spoke about his outstanding work 'Sisters'. This was a large oil on canvas painting, which depicted three Maori women with moko - namely Te Rawanake, Inahaa Te Urutahi and Waikere Puru.
Friday 23 September 2016
by ROLLAND MCKELLAR
A feature of the latest exhibition at the Percy Thomson Art Gallery, Stratford was the presence of the winner Andre Bronnimann, who spoke about his outstanding work 'Sisters'. This was a large oil on canvas painting, which depicted three Maori women with moko - namely Te Rawanake, Inahaa Te Urutahi and Waikere Puru.
Andre explained in detail the painstaking process which took over 400 hours of creativity to completion. Apart from the technical excellence, what stood out was the revealing of the interesting characters of the women. It would be hard to imagine a more remarkable painting - a worthy winner of the first place.
The judge was Mette Skougaard, Director of the Museum of Natural History, Frederiksborg Castle in Denmark. For this bi-ennial event he had to judge 366 entries, of which 36 are exhibited here.
Second place was awarded to Logan Moffat's 'R.U. Stitch'. This oil painting showed a heavily tattooed young man standing in front of a barber shop. He is in a quiet reflective mood - "a sophisticated use of light and the window glass reflects gives the subject a double character."
Second place was awarded to Logan Moffat's 'R.U. Stitch'. This oil painting showed a heavily tattooed young man standing in front of a barber shop. He is in a quiet reflective mood - "a sophisticated use of light and the window glass reflects gives the subject a double character."
The Adam Portraiture display was supported by the secondary exhibition (Community Gallery) featuring pictures by Merv Turner and Margaret Foley's pottery.
Merv's superb paintings were mostly watercolours, although there were several oil paintings. They depicted outdoor scenes in both Taranaki and England.
One which caught my eye was a watercolour entitled 'Polperro, Devon, England' showing a quaint coastal village.
Writer Katherine Mansfield once walked from Looe, where she was staying, to nearby Polperro with artist friend Anne Estelle Rice where they ate strawberries as they gazed down on the sea. I loved his Taranaki paintings such as the moody 'Mount Taranaki Sunset' and 'Autumn in Tarata'.
Margaret Foley's pottery features her vivid imagination and expert artistry. At affordable prices there was something for every taste including her exquisite 'Daisy Plate', 'Pot with Attitude,' - and with humour to the fore - 'Beach Babe Sandy'. I was especially intrigued by her fascinating 'The Old Homestead.'
Make sure you don't miss this outstanding exhibition, which runs from September 16 to October 9. The quality of the diverse exhibits is astoundingly excellent.
One which caught my eye was a watercolour entitled 'Polperro, Devon, England' showing a quaint coastal village.
Writer Katherine Mansfield once walked from Looe, where she was staying, to nearby Polperro with artist friend Anne Estelle Rice where they ate strawberries as they gazed down on the sea. I loved his Taranaki paintings such as the moody 'Mount Taranaki Sunset' and 'Autumn in Tarata'.
Margaret Foley's pottery features her vivid imagination and expert artistry. At affordable prices there was something for every taste including her exquisite 'Daisy Plate', 'Pot with Attitude,' - and with humour to the fore - 'Beach Babe Sandy'. I was especially intrigued by her fascinating 'The Old Homestead.'
Make sure you don't miss this outstanding exhibition, which runs from September 16 to October 9. The quality of the diverse exhibits is astoundingly excellent.
BNZ Collection at Percy Thomson Art Gallery a ‘must see’
Arrival, Treasures from the BNZ Art Collection
Opunake & Coastal News
Friday 26 August 2016
by ROLLAND MCKELLAR
"This is an amazing demonstration of art," enthused, Cr Richard Handley one of the speakers at the official opening of 'Arrival: Treasures from the BNZ Collection' on Friday August 12 at Percy Thomson Art Gallery.
The BNZ Art Collection (selection) consisted of 36 exhibits from the 'creme de la crème of NZ art'. The main organiser was Steivan Juvalta of Private Bank, New Plymouth. The exhibition runs until September 11 and, frankly, no art lover should miss out on this one. The collection was first established in 1982 (and added to since then) by Peter McLeavey to represent all that is worthwhile in NZ art, past and present.
Friday 26 August 2016
by ROLLAND MCKELLAR
"This is an amazing demonstration of art," enthused, Cr Richard Handley one of the speakers at the official opening of 'Arrival: Treasures from the BNZ Collection' on Friday August 12 at Percy Thomson Art Gallery.
The BNZ Art Collection (selection) consisted of 36 exhibits from the 'creme de la crème of NZ art'. The main organiser was Steivan Juvalta of Private Bank, New Plymouth. The exhibition runs until September 11 and, frankly, no art lover should miss out on this one. The collection was first established in 1982 (and added to since then) by Peter McLeavey to represent all that is worthwhile in NZ art, past and present.
Michael Smither's Sarah Cleaning Knives and Forks with Sarah (in adulthood) standing beside the painting.
There was work by such icons as Colin McCahon, Tosswill Woolaston, Ralph Hotere, Michael Smither, Don Binney, Tony Fomison, Dick Frizzell, Leo Bensemen, Peter McIntyre, Ans Westra, Robin White, and John McLean - who was a very interesting keynote speaker. Charles Blomfield was also represented with his oil and canvas painting of the Pink Terraces, which were destroyed in the 1886 volcanic eruption. His painting was completed in 1888. Also on display was his painting of 'The White Terraces'.
"Amazing - he was one of the last to see them, although he did the painting from memory," commented Terry Parkes. Someone else suggested that a photograph may have been used.
"Amazing - he was one of the last to see them, although he did the painting from memory," commented Terry Parkes. Someone else suggested that a photograph may have been used.
One interesting painting was by Michael Smither 'Sarah Cleaning Knives and Forks' (oil on hardboard), with bright vivid colours depicting a pleasant domestic scene. Equally interesting was the fact that Sarah was present and kindly posed with her childhood self in the painting.
Another painting which drew positive comment was Trevor Moffit's 'Stanley Graham' (oil painting), although not everyone was aware of its forensic significance. The subject was the perpetrator of one of NZ's worst massacres, when he shot and killed civilians and policemen on the West Coast of the South Island (Near Hokitika).
The work of Ans Westra was on display, two silver bromide photographs. The subject was entitled 'The Auckland Community Centre' showing a social setting involving dancing - perhaps The Twist.
As Bill Davies of the Village Art Gallery "It's a really stunning exhibition," so make sure you don't miss out. Remember, September 11 is your last chance, but you really need to visit the Percy Art Gallery more than once for this outstanding exhibition.
Another painting which drew positive comment was Trevor Moffit's 'Stanley Graham' (oil painting), although not everyone was aware of its forensic significance. The subject was the perpetrator of one of NZ's worst massacres, when he shot and killed civilians and policemen on the West Coast of the South Island (Near Hokitika).
The work of Ans Westra was on display, two silver bromide photographs. The subject was entitled 'The Auckland Community Centre' showing a social setting involving dancing - perhaps The Twist.
As Bill Davies of the Village Art Gallery "It's a really stunning exhibition," so make sure you don't miss out. Remember, September 11 is your last chance, but you really need to visit the Percy Art Gallery more than once for this outstanding exhibition.
Iconic NZ art on show in Taranaki for the first time
Arrival: Treasures from the BNZ Art Collection
South Taranaki Star
18 August 2016
by CATHERINE GROENESTEIN
Some of New Zealand's most iconic art has arrived for a month-long exhibition in Stratford.
It was the first time such a large selection of the BNZ's art collection had been taken to another gallery, said Percy Thomson Gallery director Rhonda Bunyan.
With official openings for both the BNZ and the public, daytime school class visits and a lot of interest from the art community around Taranaki, Bunyan predicted a very busy month.
18 August 2016
by CATHERINE GROENESTEIN
Some of New Zealand's most iconic art has arrived for a month-long exhibition in Stratford.
It was the first time such a large selection of the BNZ's art collection had been taken to another gallery, said Percy Thomson Gallery director Rhonda Bunyan.
With official openings for both the BNZ and the public, daytime school class visits and a lot of interest from the art community around Taranaki, Bunyan predicted a very busy month.
The Arrival Exhibition includes work by iconic New Zealand artists including Colin McCahon, Pat Hanly, Ralph Hotere and Toss Woollaston.
BNZ Taranaki Managing Partner Marcus McLeod said it was a personal highlight to be able to bring so many notable works to Taranaki.
"It is extremely rare for these works to be in a public gallery so it is thrilling for us to provide Taranaki art enthusiasts with an opportunity to see such a large part of our collection in one place.
"The theme of the exhibition is connection and the works that we have chosen explore our connection to the land, the complexity of relationships and the beginning and endings of journeys."
BNZ Taranaki Managing Partner Marcus McLeod said it was a personal highlight to be able to bring so many notable works to Taranaki.
"It is extremely rare for these works to be in a public gallery so it is thrilling for us to provide Taranaki art enthusiasts with an opportunity to see such a large part of our collection in one place.
"The theme of the exhibition is connection and the works that we have chosen explore our connection to the land, the complexity of relationships and the beginning and endings of journeys."
Group tied together by common thread
Fibreworks 2016
The Stratford Press
22 June 2016
by RHONDA BUNYAN
Taranaki Creative Fibre members have been beavering away to produce some fine work to exhibit in their biennial exhibition opening at Percy Thomson Gallery on Saturday June 25.
The talented and innovative group covers a wide array of disciplines; weaving, knitting, spinning, felting, dyeing. Many of the artists hold National awards and are experts in manipulating texture and form.
Each piece will be judged and prizes awarded across several categories which range from design expertise to the use of colour and specific fibres such as silk, alpaca, flax, wool, linen and cotton including a recycled category.
22 June 2016
by RHONDA BUNYAN
Taranaki Creative Fibre members have been beavering away to produce some fine work to exhibit in their biennial exhibition opening at Percy Thomson Gallery on Saturday June 25.
The talented and innovative group covers a wide array of disciplines; weaving, knitting, spinning, felting, dyeing. Many of the artists hold National awards and are experts in manipulating texture and form.
Each piece will be judged and prizes awarded across several categories which range from design expertise to the use of colour and specific fibres such as silk, alpaca, flax, wool, linen and cotton including a recycled category.
There is also an award for a first-time entrant to encourage new members and another award for the most creative use of New Zealand design or materials, with particular reference to Taranaki.
Guest artist is Rosalind Thomsen from Whanganui.
Rosalind has long been fascinated by fibre. She says it is part of hr heritage.
"My mother and one of my sisters taught me to knit, crochet and embroider. The possibilities inherent within these crafts have exerted an enduring lure on my imagination.
"I have been experimenting with textures: the texture of different types of threads, the textures that can be created with different stitches, and how different colours and thicknesses of thread in various combinations can affect the look of a given piece. The shape, form and movement of each piece give vitality and movement to the works.
Rosalind's emphasis currently is on three dimensional work. Instead of mark-making on paper or canvas, she has been drawing in space, painting with threads.
Guest artist is Rosalind Thomsen from Whanganui.
Rosalind has long been fascinated by fibre. She says it is part of hr heritage.
"My mother and one of my sisters taught me to knit, crochet and embroider. The possibilities inherent within these crafts have exerted an enduring lure on my imagination.
"I have been experimenting with textures: the texture of different types of threads, the textures that can be created with different stitches, and how different colours and thicknesses of thread in various combinations can affect the look of a given piece. The shape, form and movement of each piece give vitality and movement to the works.
Rosalind's emphasis currently is on three dimensional work. Instead of mark-making on paper or canvas, she has been drawing in space, painting with threads.
Fibreworks guest artist Rosalind Thomsen installing her work Summer bounty at Percy Thomson Gallery.
Also featured is the Australia/NZ Travelling Tapestry Exhibition. This is a yearly challenge for tapestry weavers in both countries. This year the chosen title is 'Flight'.
An opening celebration, including exhibition awards, preview and afternoon tea will be held on Sunday 26 June at 2pm.
An opening celebration, including exhibition awards, preview and afternoon tea will be held on Sunday 26 June at 2pm.
On the trail of inspiration
Taranaki Arts Trail
The Stratford Press
25 May 2016
by RHONDA BUNYAN
Percy Thomson Gallery is proud to host the 2016 Taranaki Arts Trail Exhibition from May 27 – June 19.
On the weekend of June 11 and 12, more than 70 Taranaki artists will open their studios and workshops to the public, providing a unique opportunity for the art-loving public to meet them, view their work and discuss the finer points of their craft.
Percy Thomson Gallery will be exhibiting artwork from most of the trail artists, and the majority will be for sale. We will also have a selection of work from artists who are exhibiting in 'Places of interest'.
25 May 2016
by RHONDA BUNYAN
Percy Thomson Gallery is proud to host the 2016 Taranaki Arts Trail Exhibition from May 27 – June 19.
On the weekend of June 11 and 12, more than 70 Taranaki artists will open their studios and workshops to the public, providing a unique opportunity for the art-loving public to meet them, view their work and discuss the finer points of their craft.
Percy Thomson Gallery will be exhibiting artwork from most of the trail artists, and the majority will be for sale. We will also have a selection of work from artists who are exhibiting in 'Places of interest'.
The 2016 Trail Challenge for participating artists is 'An Open and Shut Case'. These works are based on a CD case and will be available for sale at Percy Thomson Gallery on opening night. Money raised from these will help fund the trail.
Taranaki Arts Trail co-ordinator Amanda Hewlett says the ultimate aim of the trail is to build a greater understanding in the community of the process involved and the skills required in creating a work of art.
To assist visitors in planning their self-guided tour, it has been divided geographically into five smaller sections. These are North, East, South, West and New Plymouth. Admission is free. The artists' studios and workshops are open from 9.30am to 4.30pm on the weekend of June 11 and 12. Percy Thomson Gallery will extend its hours to be open at the same times.
Some artists are also open on Friday, June 10. Details are on the individual artist's page.
Brochures and accompanying maps are available from the gallery, libraries and I-site centres.
Taranaki Arts Trail co-ordinator Amanda Hewlett says the ultimate aim of the trail is to build a greater understanding in the community of the process involved and the skills required in creating a work of art.
To assist visitors in planning their self-guided tour, it has been divided geographically into five smaller sections. These are North, East, South, West and New Plymouth. Admission is free. The artists' studios and workshops are open from 9.30am to 4.30pm on the weekend of June 11 and 12. Percy Thomson Gallery will extend its hours to be open at the same times.
Some artists are also open on Friday, June 10. Details are on the individual artist's page.
Brochures and accompanying maps are available from the gallery, libraries and I-site centres.
New Plymouth Painter, Isaac Petersen
Visit the exhibition at Percy Thomson before the trail to get a measure of the artists and select the studios you wish to visit.
You are welcome to attend the opening/preview function on Friday, May 27 at 7pm. Gumboot Tango are performing.
You are welcome to attend the opening/preview function on Friday, May 27 at 7pm. Gumboot Tango are performing.
Potter has cravings for clay
Stratford Art Society
The Stratford Press
27 May 2016
By RHONDA BUNYAN
Most days local potter Margaret Foley does what she loves, creating with clay.
"I get withdrawal symptoms if I'm not touching clay at some stage during the day," she admits.
Margaret was introduced to potting "40-something years ago". It was during the 70s, the halcyon days of the New Zealand pottery movement, when artists could make a living from their work. Domestic-ware was in demand and used every day. It was a potter's bread and butter.
"I get withdrawal symptoms if I'm not touching clay at some stage during the day," she admits.
Margaret was introduced to potting "40-something years ago". It was during the 70s, the halcyon days of the New Zealand pottery movement, when artists could make a living from their work. Domestic-ware was in demand and used every day. It was a potter's bread and butter.
This changed when the domestic market was flooded with cheap alternatives, when the government relaxed import restrictions in the early 1980s.
Margaret was introduced to pottery at night classes.
"All the other ladies stopped, and I kept going."
Margaret, with help from family and friends, erected a large wood-fired salt kiln on her, and husband Terry's, Midhirst property.
Margaret was introduced to pottery at night classes.
"All the other ladies stopped, and I kept going."
Margaret, with help from family and friends, erected a large wood-fired salt kiln on her, and husband Terry's, Midhirst property.
"Janet Smith, Bev Rea and I built it with old bricks from the Eltham Bakehouse and Douglas Brickworks," recalls Margaret.
The edifice was dubbed the Taj Mahal.
"It would take three days with no sleep to fire the pots. We would think this is such a stupid idea and when we saw the results we would think it was marvellous. And when were we going to do the next one?"
It was a social event with other artists turning up with food and drink and taking turns to stoke.
"Terry had to cut the wood to size, and stack it to dry. We probably had three firings a year."
A small electric kiln has now been brought into service. Margaret fires at a higher temperature than many potters as this gives strength to her pieces, many of which are made for gardens. Margaret still participates in group pit firing with the New Plymouth Potters group.
"Raku is a fun thing to do. You don't know what you're going to get. It's always a surprise when it comes out the other end. Most of my work is hand-shaped now, but I have made a couple of casseroles on the wheel for my granddaughters."
Margaret's work is quirky, often unique and unusual. Trademarks are her indentations, patterns and symbols, pressed into the clay.
The edifice was dubbed the Taj Mahal.
"It would take three days with no sleep to fire the pots. We would think this is such a stupid idea and when we saw the results we would think it was marvellous. And when were we going to do the next one?"
It was a social event with other artists turning up with food and drink and taking turns to stoke.
"Terry had to cut the wood to size, and stack it to dry. We probably had three firings a year."
A small electric kiln has now been brought into service. Margaret fires at a higher temperature than many potters as this gives strength to her pieces, many of which are made for gardens. Margaret still participates in group pit firing with the New Plymouth Potters group.
"Raku is a fun thing to do. You don't know what you're going to get. It's always a surprise when it comes out the other end. Most of my work is hand-shaped now, but I have made a couple of casseroles on the wheel for my granddaughters."
Margaret's work is quirky, often unique and unusual. Trademarks are her indentations, patterns and symbols, pressed into the clay.
Margaret Foley with her two 'beach babes' Suzy and Sandy, which will be offered for sale at the upcoming Stratford Art Society Exhibition.
"I like to think I can come up with something different, I'm always on the lookout for new ideas, trying new things. I've got so many ideas and I'm running out of time."
Pottery by Margaret has found its way into far-away lands such as Mongolia. Highlights have been selection to the Fletcher exhibition in the Auckland Museum, four times. Her work has been shown in exhibitions throughout New Zealand.
Margaret is always keen to assist newcomers and has tutored many classes.
"I can't help myself. I love to help out."
Margaret is a long-time member of the Stratford Art Society and will be exhibiting in the upcoming exhibition which opens at Percy Thomson Gallery on Friday, April 29 at 7pm.
Pottery by Margaret has found its way into far-away lands such as Mongolia. Highlights have been selection to the Fletcher exhibition in the Auckland Museum, four times. Her work has been shown in exhibitions throughout New Zealand.
Margaret is always keen to assist newcomers and has tutored many classes.
"I can't help myself. I love to help out."
Margaret is a long-time member of the Stratford Art Society and will be exhibiting in the upcoming exhibition which opens at Percy Thomson Gallery on Friday, April 29 at 7pm.
Connecting through the exploration of artistic pathways
Connections 2016
The Stratford Press
26 March 2016
by RHONDA BUNYAN
26 March 2016
by RHONDA BUNYAN
On April 1 we have two new exhibitions opening here at Percy Thomson Gallery.
Connections 2016 comprises eight female Taranaki artists who explore the pathways through which their art has taken them, connecting them in a common thread of artistic exploration.
Connections 2016 comprises eight female Taranaki artists who explore the pathways through which their art has taken them, connecting them in a common thread of artistic exploration.
Our second exhibition is Dale Copeland's 18 th International Collage Exchange. More than 100 collage artists from around the world send a package of 13 collage artworks to Dale in Puniho, Okato.
Of each of the artist's contribution, one is exhibited and offered for sale, one becomes part of a collection donated to a chosen art institute, while the remainder are sent in mixed packs back to the artists; an exchange between peers – a parcel of surprises.
Connections 2016 artists are Jenny Bielawski, Viv Davy, Juliet Chell, Sue Morton, Antonia O'Mahony, Frances Rookes, Chris Poletti and Dorothy Andrews. Each is on her respective creative journey, working with different mediums to bring exciting works to the community and the art world.
Of each of the artist's contribution, one is exhibited and offered for sale, one becomes part of a collection donated to a chosen art institute, while the remainder are sent in mixed packs back to the artists; an exchange between peers – a parcel of surprises.
Connections 2016 artists are Jenny Bielawski, Viv Davy, Juliet Chell, Sue Morton, Antonia O'Mahony, Frances Rookes, Chris Poletti and Dorothy Andrews. Each is on her respective creative journey, working with different mediums to bring exciting works to the community and the art world.
This exhibition will be stimulating and a conversation creator, where views of the world will be questioned, sometimes with a generous twist of humour.
Antonia O'Mahony travelled for many years, then settled in Cork, Ireland, where she was a member of Cork Printmakers, a professional studio for printmakers.
Since returning to New Zealand with her family she has worked from her home studio in Taranaki.
Antonia describes her work as "investigating the human form and how it relates to and interacts with its environment and activities. Attempting to illustrate a world in which everything is interrelated and connected, I use drawing and printmaking to take the body into distortions, which express this on the physical.
continued...
Antonia O'Mahony travelled for many years, then settled in Cork, Ireland, where she was a member of Cork Printmakers, a professional studio for printmakers.
Since returning to New Zealand with her family she has worked from her home studio in Taranaki.
Antonia describes her work as "investigating the human form and how it relates to and interacts with its environment and activities. Attempting to illustrate a world in which everything is interrelated and connected, I use drawing and printmaking to take the body into distortions, which express this on the physical.
continued...
"I am particularly interested in drawing as a contemplative process for the emergence of these forms and the residual marks left as evidence of this, in the printed image."
Inglewood artist Dorothy Andrews says of her work: "I love to draw plants, especially leaves and take pride in every little detail.
"I also enjoy drawing things from my head. Just fragments of things jumbled together to form distant memories of things that perhaps never were, or have long since crumbled away to form new shapes and objects. What these shapes represent to the viewer is determined by their own memories. Everyone interprets them differently.
"I am very focused on the environment and our lack of respect for it."
Inglewood artist Dorothy Andrews says of her work: "I love to draw plants, especially leaves and take pride in every little detail.
"I also enjoy drawing things from my head. Just fragments of things jumbled together to form distant memories of things that perhaps never were, or have long since crumbled away to form new shapes and objects. What these shapes represent to the viewer is determined by their own memories. Everyone interprets them differently.
"I am very focused on the environment and our lack of respect for it."
Five French reds & a little sparkling white by mixed media artist France Rookes
Frances Rookes is interested in visually exploring the many influences that can develop or alter sense of self and to this intent creates works that provoke thought around these matters.
Frances' re-creation of 'questionably perfect and skeletal forms' make reference to life's experience, self-sufficiency and human resilience. Huinga artist Sue Morton says that whatever else has been going on in her life, art has always been the 'constant'.
Frances' re-creation of 'questionably perfect and skeletal forms' make reference to life's experience, self-sufficiency and human resilience. Huinga artist Sue Morton says that whatever else has been going on in her life, art has always been the 'constant'.
Through a three-year diploma with the Southern Institute of Technology, Sue has discovered the wonders of digital photography and Photoshop.
"Above all, I enjoy the challenge of creating something new. Who knows where this road will take me?"
Her latest series, 'Remnants of a Slice of Heaven', was born through a fascination with a local garage left desolate with remnants of the previous tenant's life there.Opunake artist Viv Davy works with various fibre media, ranging from silk to wire. Her current body of work, 'Sequential', is an exploration of repetition and the building of layers of content.
"Creating works that change as the angle of view moves, challenge quick initial perceptions and invite the viewer to linger and engage more deeply."
continued...
"Above all, I enjoy the challenge of creating something new. Who knows where this road will take me?"
Her latest series, 'Remnants of a Slice of Heaven', was born through a fascination with a local garage left desolate with remnants of the previous tenant's life there.Opunake artist Viv Davy works with various fibre media, ranging from silk to wire. Her current body of work, 'Sequential', is an exploration of repetition and the building of layers of content.
"Creating works that change as the angle of view moves, challenge quick initial perceptions and invite the viewer to linger and engage more deeply."
continued...
Making art is joyous for new Plymouth's Jenny Bielawski.
"The ideas come into my brain in their raw form and I develop them onto paper, canvas or into structures often made with fibre or fabric, or anything else that might take my fancy.
"Half the fun is choosing what medium to develop an idea. Sometimes the idea comes from the medium, other times the medium is adapted to the idea. It is intriguing to be able to find so many interesting materials and change their form into a 'work of art'."
About 10 years ago Chris Poletti began taking photographs as a hobby and discovered a passion for it. Her professional career in graphic design helped with composing an image before pressing the button.
"The ideas come into my brain in their raw form and I develop them onto paper, canvas or into structures often made with fibre or fabric, or anything else that might take my fancy.
"Half the fun is choosing what medium to develop an idea. Sometimes the idea comes from the medium, other times the medium is adapted to the idea. It is intriguing to be able to find so many interesting materials and change their form into a 'work of art'."
About 10 years ago Chris Poletti began taking photographs as a hobby and discovered a passion for it. Her professional career in graphic design helped with composing an image before pressing the button.
The love of countryside has always been a key factor in the choice of subject matter for her photographs.
Juliet Chell was born in Whanganui but she grew up on a farm east of Stratford, Huiakama. Juliet is a multi-disciplinary artist, working across sculpture, drawing, painting and printmaking. Her work is informed by cultural and social issues, including information technology and the influence it has on our lives.
"The feeling of space is important to me, especially now that I live in New Plymouth and those rural views can no longer be taken for granted," she said.
"The atmosphere and light in these images add another dimension to the landscape photographs that is at times serene and at other times mysterious."Juliet Chell was born in Whanganui but she grew up on a farm east of Stratford, Huiakama. Juliet is a multi-disciplinary artist, working across sculpture, drawing, painting and printmaking. Her work is informed by cultural and social issues, including information technology and the influence it has on our lives.
You are welcome to attend the opening/preview of these two exhibitions on Friday April 1 at 7pm.
Exhibition inspired by birdlife
Flight of fancy
The Stratford Press
2 March 2016By RHONDA BUNYAN
It's birds, birds and more birds at Percy Thomson Gallery in March.
This outstanding exhibition features the work of five New Zealand artists who have an affinity with our feathered friends, Miranda Woollett, Martin Carryer, Margaret Scott, Lee-Ann Dixon and Justine Giles.
This outstanding exhibition features the work of five New Zealand artists who have an affinity with our feathered friends, Miranda Woollett, Martin Carryer, Margaret Scott, Lee-Ann Dixon and Justine Giles.
New Zealand bird and landscape artist Miranda Woollett's vibrant oil paintings depict birds in their natural landscape.
"The idea behind these oil paintings is to try and represent how I feel emotionally as an artist and to communicate on an environmental level. Rather than using people as my subject I choose the bird. It is vulnerable, yet gets on with life regardless of circumstances and has a neutral persona. Its environment is affected by the choices we make.
"The idea behind these oil paintings is to try and represent how I feel emotionally as an artist and to communicate on an environmental level. Rather than using people as my subject I choose the bird. It is vulnerable, yet gets on with life regardless of circumstances and has a neutral persona. Its environment is affected by the choices we make.
"My art is sourced exclusively from my home and garden, and my paintings reflect that uniqueness."
Miranda has illustrated books for renowned children's authors Margaret Mahy and Joy Cowley.
Miranda has illustrated books for renowned children's authors Margaret Mahy and Joy Cowley.
Martin Carryer's wood and metal sculptures capture the essence of New Zealand native birds, while also alluding to the destruction of the birds' natural habitat by humans. His work is driven primarily by a fascination with form and a passion for the process of translating that form into his lifelong medium of wood.
Martin first delved into woodwork around the age of 10, crafting samples to demonstrate the beauty in the grain of various timbers. Though his livelihood was farming in Taranaki and the Manawatu.
Martin started making furniture in the 1970s, one-off pieces in native timbers. In the last decade he has become increasingly interested in contemporary design and has become progressively experimental.
Martin first delved into woodwork around the age of 10, crafting samples to demonstrate the beauty in the grain of various timbers. Though his livelihood was farming in Taranaki and the Manawatu.
Martin started making furniture in the 1970s, one-off pieces in native timbers. In the last decade he has become increasingly interested in contemporary design and has become progressively experimental.
Martin began sculpting birds in 2009, developing a style through investigation of the form. He is enchanted by capturing the expression of New Zealand native birds and by the identity associated with birds in our history.
Margaret Scott has lived all her life on the Taranaki coast. Her work reflects the rural environment where she lives, beautiful coastal, mountain and bush vistas, often with symbols and motifs which represent her surroundings.
Margaret has had numerous solo exhibitions in the Taranaki region and has exhibited widely throughout New Zealand.
Margaret has had numerous solo exhibitions in the Taranaki region and has exhibited widely throughout New Zealand.
Margaret has recently published her second book titled Portrait of a Paua, part autobiographical, part anecdotal with art tutorials and tips and, of course, paintings.
Margaret now works from her Art by the Sea studio at Oakura and regularly offers workshops and classes.
Margaret now works from her Art by the Sea studio at Oakura and regularly offers workshops and classes.
continued...
Originally from Marlborough, Lee-Ann Dixon has been in Nelson since leaving school. She graduated from NMIT in 2005 with a bachelor of Visual Arts.
"Since then I have been juggling my art practice with raising my four children and work. As my life changes so does my artwork. Mostly it is an ongoing theme of motherhood and domesticity. As my children grow older I have more time to reflect and remember my own childhood and identity," she told me.
"Since then I have been juggling my art practice with raising my four children and work. As my life changes so does my artwork. Mostly it is an ongoing theme of motherhood and domesticity. As my children grow older I have more time to reflect and remember my own childhood and identity," she told me.
Her subject matter reflects the particular faze of life she is in.
"When the kids were smaller it was teacups and teapots referring to nurture, family and precious time out for a stressed mum. Now it's moths, birds, animal skulls and even teddies."
Lee-Ann paints on recycled silver trays.
"This was born from watching my late mother's china cabinet full of her treasures and the special memories attached to them. Sadly, when I went to the recycle centres and garage sales I saw many of these same treasures that had been discarded.
"When the kids were smaller it was teacups and teapots referring to nurture, family and precious time out for a stressed mum. Now it's moths, birds, animal skulls and even teddies."
Lee-Ann paints on recycled silver trays.
"This was born from watching my late mother's china cabinet full of her treasures and the special memories attached to them. Sadly, when I went to the recycle centres and garage sales I saw many of these same treasures that had been discarded.
"I collected the trays to represent these treasures and to breathe new life into once-loved objects."
Her works in this exhibition are about childhood memories of growing up in the countryside in the 1970s.
Her works in this exhibition are about childhood memories of growing up in the countryside in the 1970s.
Justine Giles' art practice incorporates primarily drawing, watercolour and found objects and is concerned with the themes of trace and potential, the literary, and text as image. Justine gained her MFA with First Class Honours at Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design in 2015. Her bird portraits are delicate and fine with great attention to detail.