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McCahon House Resident Luise Fong Exhibition

Urban artist Luise Fong who has been resident at the McCahon House since December last year has learnt how to "talk tree" She is holding her post residency exhibition at Lopdell House Gallery and her beautiful, textural works are inspired by the Kauris that tower above the residency. The beautifully worked surfaces have taken on the colours of the bush which surrounds the purpose built award winning 'tree house' residency and they exhibit a peace and contemplation which has been a big part of her residency. Luise will be talking about her work at the gallery at 10 am on Friday 13th of February.

Dates: Thu 12 Feb 09 - Sat 13 Apr 13, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Lopdell House Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Picturing History: Goldie to Cotton

The Auckland Art Gallery invites you to explore a collection of New Zealand art works on display from April 25th 2009 - February 21st 2010. Stories of origin and arrival, significant events, and the transformation of the land of New Zealand are just some of the themes explored in this collection exhibition. Drawing from across the historic, modern and contemporary New Zealand collections this exhibition considers how artists have responded to and interpreted our history through their work. A special focus within the exhibition is the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886, and the impact the devastation it wrought had on the country. The exhibition features works by Charles Goldie, Gottfried Lindauer, Colin McCahon and Shane Cotton, some of New Zealand's most celebrated artists of the past and present, amongst others. Families can discover art together with Auckland Art Gallery's free Family Guide, filled with creative activities for kids aged 6 to 12. Image: Charles Blomfield White Terraces, Rotomahana, 1897 oil on canvas, Auckland Art Gallery, gift of Mr D L Murdoch.

Dates: Sat 25 Apr 09 - Sun 21 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Auckland Art Gallery, New Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Bill Culbert and Ralph Hotere: P.R.O.P

The Dunedin Public Art Gallery presents Bill Culbert and Ralph Hotere's installation work P.R.O.P. on display from June 25th 2009 - February 14th 2010. This highly charged installation piece was originally made in response to changes made to the headland at Observation Point, and is an important reminder that artists throughout history have both galvanised socio-political issues and been agents for holding powerful organizations to account. P.R.O.P. is one of the first major collaborative works by Ralph Hotere and Bill Culbert, who share a profound and ongoing connection with the Port Chalmers community, and has been the catalyst for a number of other substantial projects. Image: Bill Culbert and Ralph Hotere P.R.O.P. 1991 (detail) corrugated iron and neon tube lights. From the Dunedin Public Art Gallery collection.

Dates: Thu 25 Jun 09 - Sun 14 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Dunedin Public Art Gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Tom Kreisler

The Dunedin Public Art Gallery presents a new exhibition of works by Tom Kreisler, ON display from September 26th 2009 - February 21st 2010. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina (1938-2002) Tom Kreisler spent the majority of his life in New Zealand where he became an influential painter, thinker, poet and teacher leaving an indelible presence within this country’s art community. Tom Kreisler showcases over sixty paintings in a range of media and includes a rich spectrum of drawings, altered ready-mades and personal writings, which span a thirty-year period. As a cultural outsider, Kreisler often produced work that disturbed or questioned notions around what might be considered the 'typical' and found the strange within seemingly mundane items: a tap, table or coat. He was also interested in blurring the relationship between image and word (often utilizing several languages) to create darkly humorous plays on cliché and the everyday. Toured by the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery with the support of Creative New Zealand, Aalto Colour, umbrella design and Viewfinder.

Dates: Sat 26 Sep 09 - Sun 21 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Dunedin Public Art Gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Tracey Williams: My Ship / Teenei Wakaheera

The Tauranga Art Gallery invites you to view an exhibition of works by Tracey Williams, on display from October 3rd 2009 - March 2010. Tracey Williams’ work appropriates everyday events, things or ideas and represents them in ways that asks the viewer to consider how their own sense of reality is constructed. Her considered approach to layered contexts and hidden meanings allows the often overlooked, underlying narratives to unfold. In this multi-media exhibition, Williams explores the idea that cultural artefacts are often associated with fixed identities and meanings, but can be used in a manner that challenges our preconceptions. Williams has constructed a custom-made ship to symbolise the cultural connections of Tauranga’s waterfront – as one of the first settlements of both Maori and European, as a link to trade, access to landfall and retreat during times of war, and as a port. She has then introduced various elements to critique these narratives, such as cladding the ship in textiles and women’s craftwork to symbolise culture-defining histories being recorded exclusively through male voices and deeds.

Dates: Sat 03 Oct 09 - Sun 14 Mar 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Tauranga Art Gallery
Region: Bay of Plenty
Cost: Admission by donation

Areta Wilkinson: Waka Huia

Waka Huia is a treasure trove of precious jewellery, objects, and stories created by leading New Zealand jeweller Areta Wilkinson, on display at the Hawke's Bay Museum and Art Gallery from 17 October 2009 – 14 March 2010. The exhibition explores Wilkinson’s return to her spiritual home of Ngai Tahu, and reflects the cultural landscapes through which she travels. Wilkinson has developed a new element of Waka Huia for Hawke's Bay Museum and Art Gallery viewers. These works adopt the tradition of carte de visite: travel photographs of family and loved ones. Wilkinson’s pictorial devices relate through whakapapa and legend, unlocking deeper narratives for the objects of Waka Huia. It is an exciting time to be working with Areta Wilkinson, one of this country’s leading Maori artists, who is fresh from receiving one of New Zealand’s most prestigious awards for contemporary jewellery – The New Dowse Gold Award.

Dates: Sat 17 Oct 09 - Sun 14 Mar 10, every day, 10:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: Hawke's Bay Museum and Art Gallery
Region: Hawke's Bay
Cost: Adults $10, Children (5-15) $5, Children -5 Free, Students $8, Friends of Museum Free

The Soft Parade

Whether by gesture, colour, line, tone or title, artists have been getting us to look at art by luring us with the beauty of the surface. This exhibition asks us to assume nothing about the surface and invites to you in to interpret softness with less fuzzy lenses than our senses. Soft images are beautiful and our perception of softness is linked to our experiences of what ‘soft’ might imply. By taking a hard look beyond what might appear sensual and soft, we can often find turbulence just beneath the surface that reveals another layer to a complicated story.

Dates: Sat 31 Oct 09 - Sun 14 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Waikato Museum
Region: Waikato
Cost: tbc

Neil Pardington: The Vault

Glimpses into normally hidden spaces behind the scenes of New Zealand museums and galleries will be offered by leading contemporary photographer Neil Pardington in his exhibition Neil Pardington: The Vault which opens at Christchurch Art Gallery on 6 November 2009. The exhibition’s 40 images reveals storage spaces that are normally closed to the public (including some at Christchurch Art Gallery), exposing storehouses of memory and places filled with mystifying treasure. They include photographs of animals and birds in taxidermy storerooms, paintings fastened to sliding storage walls, specimens in jars, rooms of mannequins, shelves of films in tins, taonga Māori, buildings full of army vehicles, textiles, card catalogues and much more. A graduate of the University of Auckland’s Elam School of Fine Arts in 1984, Pardington (Kai Tahu, Kati Mamoe, Kati Waewae, Pākehā) has exhibited nationally and internationally, and worked as a film-maker, artist and designer. One of his films has been shown at Cannes. He has steadily built a reputation as one of New Zealand’s most highly regarded photographers, and his work is now represented in many of the country’s major collections. This is his first major solo show.

Dates: Fri 06 Nov 09 - Sun 14 Mar 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Christchurch Art Gallery
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Stoneleigh Sculpture in the Gardens

Large scale sculptures by 20 New Zealand artists will be displayed on a 1.8 kilometre trail through the stunning Auckland Botanic Gardens. from 7 November 2009 - 14 February 2010. Stoneleigh Sculpture in the Gardens is a three-month outdoor exhibition of large-scale sculptures by New Zealand’s best known, up-and-coming and most talented artists. The trail takes you on a delightful walk through the garden collections at the region’s beautiful Botanic Gardens – only 20 minutes from downtown Auckland. The trail features works by: Richard Wedekind, Christine Hellyar, Colleen Ryan-Priest, Tui Hobson, Bing Dawe, John Edgar, Chris Hargreaves, Phil Newbury, Aiko Groot, Peter Lange, Jamie Pickernell, David McCracken, Jeff Thomson, Phil Neary, Gaye Jurisich, Todd Butterworth, Russell Beck, Fiona Garlick, Sopolemalama Filipe Tohi and Barry Lett. Also on display at Huakaiwaka Visitor Centre, an exhibition of small sculptures and concept drawings, and ‘Garden of Delights’, botanical gems by the New Zealand Medallion Group. Entry to Stoneleigh Sculpture in the Gardens is free. The Gardens are open daily from 8am to 8pm and the Visitor Centre and Café Miko are open from 8am – 4pm. Check out the Auckland Botanic Gardens website for kids’ summer workshops, wine tasting, music events and guided walks being held during the exhibition months. www.aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz/sculpture

Dates: Sat 07 Nov 09 - Sun 14 Feb 10, every day, 8:00am - 8:00pm.
Venue: Auckland Botanic Gardens
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Derek Henderson and Michael Parekowhai

Michael Lett is pleased to present a two-person exhibition by Derek Henderson and Michael Parekowhai at The Department Store, from 7 November 2009. Located on the top floor of the new 3-level complex, the exhibition at The Department Store will be open over the summer months, featuring photographs by Derek Henderson selected from over 20 years of practice and My Sister, My Self, a major sculpture by Michael Parekowhai. Derek Henderson is one of New Zealand’s most renowned and dynamic photographers. His work has been featured in such publications as Vogue, Russh, ID, Arena Homme Plus, The Independent and The Observer, and has been exhibited throughout New Zealand, Australia and the U.K. Henderson released his first monograph, 'The Terrible Boredom of Paradise', to critical acclaim in 2005 and will release a second publication, entitled 'Mercy Mercer', with Michael Lett Publishing at the end of 2009. As well as maintaining an impressive schedule of solo exhibitions in Australasia, Michael Parekowhai’s work has been included in many important international projects, including the Asia Pacific Triennial (2006-2007), the Gwangju Biennale (2004); Sydney Biennale (2002), Headlands, MCA, Sydney (1992). His work is held in all significant public and private collections throughout New Zealand and Australia, as well as major works in permanent collections across the Asia-Pacific region and Europe. In 2001 Parekowhai was made an Arts Foundation of New Zealand Laureate, cementing his position as one of New Zealand's most important contemporary practitioners. Image: Derek Henderson, Untitled, 2008

Dates: Sat 07 Nov 09 - Sun 28 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, 9:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: The Department Store
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Awatea Matatau: the dawning of light and knowledge

Awatea Matatau features the work of Bachelor of Māori Visual Arts candidates Senia Eastmure, Karangawai Marsh and Bridget Reweti, and Master of Māori Visual Arts candidates Ngahina Hohaia and Kura Puke. Working with new media including video, fibre optics and light boxes, the artists engage conceptually, allegorically and literally with light. Awatea Matatau will be a permanent exhibition at Te Manawa. On display from 10am - 5pm. Image: Ngahina Hohaia, Paopao ki tua o rangi, 2009, installed at Puke Ariki. Photograph courtesy of School of Māori Studies.

Dates: Sat 14 Nov 09 - Sun 14 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Te Manawa
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: Free

Cho Duck Hyun - Dark Water: The Antipodes Project

Dark Water: the Antipodes Project is an installation that South Korean artist Cho Duck Hyun produced in Auckland earlier this year in response to the short-term art in public sculpture series Living Room 09: My heart is where my home is, curated by Pontus Kyander. Dark Water is an ongoing project in which a container is fictitiously transported through the Earth and then excavated from the underground to reveal a series of photo-realist portraits by Professor Choy. This work continues this artist’s long interest in revealing and discussing the way patterns of migration has impacted on and also been hidden in recent social and cultural history. Dark Water: the Antipodes Project will be on display at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery from 21 November 2009 – 28 February 2010.

Dates: Sat 21 Nov 09 - Sun 28 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Dunedin Public Art Gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Chris Heaphy: Untitled (Bleu)

The Christchurch Art Gallery invites you to view a new video work by Chris Heaphy, on display from 21 November 2009 - 14 February 2010. Screening to coincide with the exhibition Blue Planet, this video work from the Gallery collection is of the waters of Lake Taupo, near the mouth of the Hinemaia River. Chris Heaphy has turned this rich-blue waterscape on its side to create an enigmatic image suggesting ghostly figures. The soundtrack is a mixture of Gregorian chanting and sacred music by 16th-century Italian composer Claudio Monteverdi.

Dates: Sat 21 Nov 09 - Sun 14 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 5:00pm. Sat 21 Nov 09 - Sun 14 Feb 10, on Wed, 10:00am - 9:00pm.
Venue: Christchurch Art Gallery
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Jill Kennedy: The New Educational Series

The Film Archive Media Gallery are very excited to be rounding off 2009 with some stunning animation work by Auckland-based artist Jill Kennedy, on display from 25th November 2009 - 13 February 2010. Kennedy has created a three-part animation series using educational books from the 1960s and 70s as source material. • Canaries In Colour, Animation, 2007 • Better Military Modelling, Animation, 2008 • At Home With The Ants, Animation, 2009 Animation by Jill Kennedy, recipient of the Starving Artist Award 2009, sound by designer/composer John Payne. Come and help us round off what has been an exciting year for the mediagallery with shows by the likes of Terry Urbahn, Edith Amituanai and Gray Nicoll, among others. The final exhibition opening for the year will be held at the Film Archive Mediagallery on Wednesday 25 November from 5:30pm.

Dates: Wed 25 Nov 09 - Sat 13 Feb 10, on Sat, 11:00am - 4:00pm. Wed 25 Nov 09 - Sat 13 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 11:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: New Zealand Film Archive - Wellington
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Peter Adsett: Matawhero: Bullet Holes and Bandages

Pataka presents an exhibition of works by New Zealand artist Peter Adsett , on display from 28 November 2009 - 14 March 2010. Peter Adsett has taken one of the most arresting events in Tairawhiti history and declined to talk about it. Instead, through his decades-long experimentation with abstraction, the Melbourne-based artist invites the viewer to "seek out the edges", to try to make their own sense out of the 1868 Matawhero 'Massacre'. The Matawhero 'Massacre' refers to the 1868 incident when Maori prophet Te Kooti Arikirangi Te Turuki and his followers killed around 60 people -- roughly equal numbers of Maori and Pakeha. The attack was said to be vengeance (utu) for Te Kooti's treatment after his capture at Waerenga-a-hika three years earlier. Peter Adsett has exhibited widely throughout Australia, Japan, the US and New Zealand. He has built a considerable career as an accomplished and distinctive abstract artist. Come and hear Peter Adsett talk about his new exhibition being opened at 1pm, on 29 November at Pataka.

Dates: Sat 28 Nov 09 - Sun 14 Mar 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, 10:00am - 4:30pm. Sat 28 Nov 09 - Sun 14 Mar 10, on Sun, 11:00am - 4:30pm.
Venue: PATAKA Museum of Arts and Cultures
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Talisman

The Christchurch Art Gallery invites you to view 'Talismans', an exhibition of works by New Zealand jewellery artists on display in the Monica Richards Gallery from 5 December 2009 - 14 February 2010. Talismans are found in many cultures throughout the world. In this exhibition twelve contemporary New Zealand jewellery artists have made new work responding to the enduring power of the talisman. Ritual, superstition and transformation, aspects often forgotten or lost in secular society, are explored. The inclusion of twelve rare and important historic talismans from Canterbury Museum's Oceanic collection highlights an exchange across times and cultures, and reinforces not only the connections between jewellery and the body, science, magic and nature, but also the idea that jewellery accrues meaning through use. Sponsored by Creative New Zealand and in partnership with Canterbury Museum.

Dates: Sat 05 Dec 09 - Sun 14 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 5:00pm. Sat 05 Dec 09 - Sun 14 Feb 10, on Wed, 10:00am - 9:00pm.
Venue: Christchurch Art Gallery
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Summer Catalogue 2009/2010

The Warkwick Henderson Gallery invite you to view their 2009/2010 Summer Catalogue Exhibition, on display from 8 December 2009 – 28 February 2010. Our Catalogue this year includes some wonderful works such as an exquisite Charles Blomfield of “Westport”, painted when sailing ships plied the coastline of New Zealand. An extremely rare Trevor Moffitt “Father Series” work is also a feature of the Catalogue. This image is one of the highly sought “War Series” depicting his father at the New Zealand Expeditionary forces training camp in Wales. A unique work by Alice Whtye is also included which shows the “Three Kings Quarry” in Auckland around the 1920’s. This is one of very few paintings showing the Three Kings volcanoes, of which now only one remains, the other two having been quarried away. A magnificent example of the important “Motorway” Series by Robert Ellis is also included in this catalogue. In the orange, white and brown tones painted on the black background this is one of the best examples from this early New Zealand abstract series of paintings. Another major abstract work is also included by leading New Zealand abstract expressionist painter Philippa Blair. “Hybrid Tracking” is a fine example of this American based New Zealand artist’s vibrant use of colour. New paintings from Nigel Brown, Mark Wooller, Rozi Demant, VikyGarden and three recent Elam graduates also grace the catalogue. There are three lovely new works by Nigel Brown which arrived too late for illustration in our catalogue. Image: Nigel Brown - Dog Walker

Dates: Tue 08 Dec 09 - Sun 28 Feb 10, on Sat, 10:00am - 4:00pm. Tue 08 Dec 09 - Sun 28 Feb 10, on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:30pm.
Venue: Warwick Henderson Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Clinton Watkins: Avalanche

The Film Archive in Auckland present a new multimedia work by Clinton Watkins, on display from 10 December 2009 - 27 February 2010. "We are presented with an image projected into a screen occupying almost the entire area from floor to ceiling. The recurring sequence is of an Avalanche, where we don't know. The film clip is is continually repeated without being segued - but the soundtrack, coming from speakers mounted in the ceiling, is sonorous, hypnotic, primal, building progressively with each repeated run". - From exhibition text by Matthew Crookes

Dates: Thu 10 Dec 09 - Sat 27 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: New Zealand Film Archive - Auckland
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Lisa Walker: Unwearable

TheNewDowse celebrates the achievements of one of New Zealand’s most internationally successful jewellers. 'Unwearable' is a survey exhibition that traces the dramatic changes in Lisa Walker’s practice since the early 1990s - a tantalising transition from traditional and functional to unwearable. Trading in her soldering torch for the fast draw of the glue gun, Walker has spent the past 15 years living and working in Europe where her jewellery has evolved beyond the realm of practicality. The show coincides with her return from Germany with her family to live in Wellington. An original member of Auckland’s Workshop 6 jewellery workshop, Lisa Walker left New Zealand in 1995 to further her jewellery studies in Munich with leading jeweller, Professor Otto Künzli. At that time she was known in her homeland for her beautifully-crafted brooches that resembled seashell-like forms. In Germany, Walker abandoned metal for the unpredictability of found materials, pursuing possibilities beyond the confines of the practical. 'Unwearable' will be on display from 12 December 2009 - 25 April 2010.

Dates: Sat 12 Dec 09 - Sun 25 Apr 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: The New Dowse
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Looking Glass: Reflecting Ideas

The Sarjeant Gallery presents ' Looking Glass: reflecting ideas' a new exhibition of works by 21 New Zealand glass artists, on display from 12 December 2009 - 14 March 2010. Looking Glass: Reflecting Ideas is a major exhibition of the work of 21 New Zealand artists working in the dynamic medium of glass. Each artist is represented by three objects that chart the development of an idea. Curated by Grace Cochrane, Sydney and Greg Donson, Sarjeant Gallery. The exhibition and accompanying publication have been generously supported by Creative NZ and sponsored by Doyle + Associates. Exhibition opening 12 December 2009 from 6 - 8pm.

Dates: Sat 12 Dec 09 - Sun 14 Mar 10, every day, 10:30am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Sarjeant Gallery
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: Free

Len Lye: The Cosmic Archive

During his career, New Zealand-born artist Len Lye (1901–1980) witnessed a period of tremendous expansion in scientific inquiry. The Len Lye Collection and Archive at the Govett-Brewster contains hundreds of scientific articles the artist gleaned from the popular press, in fields ranging from psychology to astronomy, particle physics to palaeontology. Featuring several of these news clippings, 'Len Lye: The Cosmic Archive' explores the space age imagination and its impact on Lye’s work in a range of media. This exhibition presents the newly reconstructed kinetic sculpture, 'Moon Bead' (1968 / 2009), the rarely seen 'Bones' (1965), as well as the films 'The Birth of the Robot' (1936) and 'Particles in Space' (1957–1979). Curated by Tyler Cann. Image: Len Lye 'The Birth of the Robot' 1936 (detail). Courtesy the Len Lye Foundation and The New Zealand Film Archive

Dates: Sat 12 Dec 09 - Mon 15 Mar 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
Region: Taranaki
Cost: Free

Ioan Grigore: Think (and/or laugh) About It...

Think (and/or laugh) about it... is an exhibition of works by Ioan Grigore on display at the Forrester Galley from 12 December 2009 - 14 February 2010.

Dates: Sat 12 Dec 09 - Sun 14 Feb 10, every day, 10:30am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Forrester Art Gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

The Naked and The Nude

The unclothed human figure is one of art’s oldest subjects, yet it still catches attention and ignites debate. This exhibition brings together dozens of bodies from the collection, from languid academic nudes to the fragmented bodies of recent art. Along the way, the exhibition charts the growing tension between the nude and the naked – between works of art that idealise the body and those that try to tell it like it is. 18 December 2009 – 18 April 2010.

Dates: Fri 18 Dec 09 - Sun 18 Apr 10, on Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 5:00pm. Fri 18 Dec 09 - Sun 18 Apr 10, on Wed, 10:00am - 9:00pm.
Venue: Christchurch Art Gallery
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Fifi Cheung: Played Out

The Corban Estate Arts Centre presents an exhibition of works by Fifi Cheung, on display from January 15 to February 21, 2010. Played Out is a visual playground of photographs and installation aimed at simultaneously reintroducing us to the naïve and carefree moments of childhood and a tangible sense of loss as we revisit the past.

Dates: Fri 15 Jan 10 - Sun 21 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Corban Estate Arts Centre
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Summer School Tutor Showcase

Thiis exhibition at the Corban Estate Arts Centre showcases the work of Summer School Tutors: Leila Ataya, David Reid, Graham Ambrose, Kate Rutecki, Donna Demente, Mary Ama and Shelley Ryde. January 15 to February 21, 2010 Exhibition Opening: Thursday 14 January from 6pm.

Dates: Fri 15 Jan 10 - Sun 21 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Corban Estate Arts Centre
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Urban Kainga

City Gallery Wellington presents 'Urban Kainga' a new Deane Gallery exhibition, curated by Reuben Friend, on display from 16 January –28 March 2010. How do we define an urban community? How do people form and retain their cultural identity in a city environment where people from many places and cultural backgrounds have gathered? For Māori the word kāingameans dwelling or village. In the Kingdom of Tonga kainga relates to extended family, and in Samoan the word is aiga. In Pacific communities the concept of kāingaextends beyond the idea of ‘neighbourhood’ or place, to include blood ties, sharing traditional customs, and cultural inheritance and legacy. Urban Kainga features the art of four male artists who explore some of the challenges faced by Māori and Pacific communities trying to retain traditional cultural customs, on top of the realities of suburban life: Reweti Arapere, Terry Koloamatangi Klavenes, Nick McFarlane and Siliga David Setoga. Terry Koloamatangi Klavenes’ photography documents his kainga, his family and community.While his family migrated to New Zealand in search of the ‘Pacific Island dream’, Klavenes found that his sense of self and community were shaped by the uncertainties of relocation, and the ongoing anxieties of an identity formed in a low socio-economic urban area. Artist Nick McFarlane grew up near Porirua in Wellington, a community where gang members had a strong presence during the 1980's. As a child of Pakeha descent growing up around these kinds of urban tribes, McFarlane observed that the gangs were a side-effect of greater social problems. His reworked gang patches describe some of the conditions in which gangs thrive. The core motivation behind the art of Reweti Arapere (Ngāti Raukawa, Tuwharetoa) is the desire to inspire other rangatahi (youth) to pursue the teachings of their ancestors in a way which will empower them to become the rangatira (leaders) of tomorrow. He uses a combination of graffiti style stencils and customary Māori art forms to tell the tale ofyoung urban Māori men who identify with both Māori and metropolitan culture. Siliga David Setoga’s art looks at the impact of mass marketing and the media on his community and identity. His art reworks globally recognised brands, often revealing insidious messages concealed beneath the attractive packaging. Image: Pou Korero, 2008 Reweti Arapere Collection of Darcy and Anne Nicholas Photographer: Erena Baker

Dates: Sat 16 Jan 10 - Sun 28 Mar 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: City Gallery Wellington
Region: Wellington
Cost: Entry charges apply until February 7 - Adults $10, Concessions $8. Free entry after February 7.

Maxine Jepson: Raw Intuition

From Window Dressing to Peruvian Art Exotic patterns depicted in clay mainly inspired by the ancient art of the Inca-Maya culture are on display in a stunning new exhibition at Taupo Museum. Giant handmade ‘necklaces’, reminiscent of over-sized jewellery and flamboyant ceramic and fabric tassels re just some of the interesting pieces on show in Maxine Jepson’s solo exhibition in the museum’s art gallery. Although inspired by ancient civilisations they would look fabulous decorating the wall of many contemporary homes of today. Using fired ceramic in its natural state along with hemp, silk and cotton fibres Maxine has created an exhibition with strong form and texture. By only using whites and creams the work in “Raw Intuition” is given a soft, almost spiritual feeling. Maxine’s collection celebrates the Moche society that flourished in northern Peru between 200BC and AD700. “I am drawn to aged things which carry the mark of time, fragmented objects, crumbled stone walls. I love to see the amazing decayed colours time and nature have created and to imagine them in all their historical glory,” said Maxine. For many years, Maxine Jepson ran a successful window dressing business in downtown Auckland where she was renowned for her calico sculptures. She moved to Australia where she continued to develop her techniques and exhibited her work widely not only throughout Australia but Italy, the Middle East and Great Britain. Examples of Maxine’s work are found in foyers and restaurants and in private and corporate collections throughout the world. The museum has already sold a number of her largest pieces to international visitors. ‘Raw Intuition’ is on show at Taupo Museum until 9 February. The Museum is open daily 10am till 4:30pm.

Dates: Sat 16 Jan 10 - Tue 09 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Taupo Museum
Region: Waikato
Cost: Adult $5, Children free, Senior $3

Ewen McDougall: Shitabrick

The Lane Gallery invites you to view an exhibition of new paintings by Ewen McDougall, on display from 19 January - 12 February 2010. Over the last 20 years Ewen McDougall has had 52 solo exhibitions in some prominent New Zealand dealer galleries and innumerable NZ group exhibitions in addition to exhibiting internationally. McDougall has developed a powerfully vibrant signature style. His witty, outrageous works are inhabited by a wealth of personal references to his often volatile life. Exhibition opening Tuesday 19th January from 5.30pm.

Dates: Tue 19 Jan 10 - Fri 12 Feb 10, on Sat, 10:00am - 4:00pm. Tue 19 Jan 10 - Fri 12 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: The Lane Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Takeaways

Takeaways is an exhibition of works by various artists on display at 84 Lichfield Street, Christchurch from January 22 - February 13 2010. Opening Reception: Friday 22 January, 6pm

Dates: Fri 22 Jan 10 - Sat 13 Feb 10, every day, 6:00pm.
Venue: 84 Lichfield Street
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Richard Maloy/Campbell Patterson/Hito Steyerl

ARTSPACE presents three artist projects on exhibition simultaneously. Richard Maloy: Raw Attempts, Campbell Patterson: floorshow and Hito Steyerl: After the Crash. Saturday, 12 December 2009 - Saturday, 27 February 2010. In Raw Attempts Richard Maloy will treat ARTSPACE as both a gallery and a studio space, for a period of 85 days. From the first day of installation through to the last day of the exhibition he will develop sculptural forms daily progress of his attempts within the gallery. You can watch the daily progress of his 'attempts' online.

Dates: Mon 25 Jan 10 - Sat 27 Feb 10, on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm. Mon 25 Jan 10 - Sat 27 Feb 10, on Sat, 11:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: Artspace
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

John Papas: The Remembrance of Things Past

Sanderson Contemporary Art Gallery invites you to view a new exhibition of wrks by John Papas, on display from 26 January - 14 February 2010. In John Papas’ latest show 'The Remembrance of Things Past' the artist further establishes his authority as a visual poet, blending universal themes around cultural and cyclical rhythms with historical and biblical associations. He effortlessly links an ancient past with a very real present and imminent future. Papas’ Greek and Scottish ancestry combines to weave a unique historical thread with his identity as native born New Zealander in the South Pacific. Papas’ technique of blending and layering disparate ideas, imagery and periods is reinforced by his working method. This body of work continues to draw on his ability to present themes of interest to him through a combination of representational and abstract concepts, using a range of techniques such as painting, collaging, printing and drawing. The Remembrance of Things Past, opens Tuesday 26 Jan at 5.30pm.

Dates: Tue 26 Jan 10 - Sun 14 Feb 10, on Sat, 10:00am - 5:00pm. Tue 26 Jan 10 - Sun 14 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:30am - 5:30pm. Tue 26 Jan 10 - Sun 14 Feb 10, on Sun, 11:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: Sanderson Contemporary Art
Region: Auckland
Cost: tbc

Blue Oyster Gallery: Grad Show

Dunedin's Blue Oyster Gallery invite you to view an exhibition of works by Otago Polytechnic students, on display from 26 January - 20 February 2010. Every year the Blue Oyster stages a Grad Show to showcase experimental and innovative art works created by recent graduates from the Otago Polytechnic School of Fine Arts. This year's exhibition will feature works by Debbie Adamson, Gwen Hudson, John Paxie, Alex MacKinnon, Lars Preisser and Jesse Simons. As a new twist the 2010 Grad Show has been curated by recent graduate of the Otago University Art History and Theory programme Lauren Gutsell; making this a truly pan-institutional graduate exhibition. The works in this exhibition have been selected by Gutsell because of their shared interest the subtle and continuous flux of everything around us. Each work centers on a change or transformation of materials, concepts, expectations or processes, leading the viewer to ask questions of how they came to be, how they function and what assumptions they are based on. By existing as only one of many potential resolutions or applications these art works encourage us to expand our outlook on what is possible. The exhibition will open on Tuesday 26 January at 5:30pm. Image: Alex MacKinnon A Deaf Piano 2009, photography by Markus Gradwohl

Dates: Tue 26 Jan 10 - Sat 20 Feb 10, on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 11:00am - 5:00pm. Tue 26 Jan 10 - Sat 20 Feb 10, on Sat, 12:00pm - 3:00pm.
Venue: Blue Oyster Gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Marco Fusinato, Bruce Russell and Adam Willetts: Towards a Cinema of Pure Means

The Physics Room invites you to view 'Towards a Cinema of Pure Means' a new exhibition of works by Marco Fusinato, Bruce Russell and Adam Willetts, on display from 27 January – 28 February 2010. Sampling a range of approaches and propositions within the realm of improvised noise and sound art, 'Towards a Cinema of Pure Means' implicates its audience in the presentation and reception of these collected works by Fusinato, Russell and Willetts. Accommodating a range of sonic devices and associated works of art, this presentation has been drawn together by the locally based improvising sound artist Bruce Russell. Gaining strength in numbers and making the most of the collectivity and catalysis that any group dynamic ultimately provides, Towards a Cinema of Pure Means presents three perspectives and individual practices within the context of a broader conversation about sound, musical expression and art. Colluding with each other and the audiences that experience their various forays into the production and reproduction of sound, for The Physics Room Fusinato, Russell and Willetts present an object-focused and documentary project that both captures and catalogues different moments of their own investigations into the vast potentiality of noise. Literally lending time and attention to sound-based works within the space of The Physics Room’s gallery, Towards a Cinema of Pure Means further profiles the kind of cultural investigations that we most often seek to support via our public programme of events and performances. Exhibition opening preview: Tuesday 26 January 2010, 5.30pm. Image: Bruce Russell, still from 'Runway' 2009.

Dates: Wed 27 Jan 10 - Sun 28 Feb 10, on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:00pm. Wed 27 Jan 10 - Sun 28 Feb 10, on Sat, Sun, 11:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: The Physics Room
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Sriwhana Spong: Channeling Mr B

Michael Lett is pleased to announce the opening of 'Channeling Mr B', an exhibition of new work by Sriwhana Spong comprising a film, Costume for a Mourner, and a hanging sculpture entitled Field Figures. 27 January - 6 March 2010 Costume for a Mourner re-imagines a dance from Le Chant du Rossignol, a ballet originally created for Sergei Diaghilev's Ballet Russes by Igor Stravinsky and his collaborator George Balanchine, based on the Hans Christian Anderson tale, The Nightingale. Working from the only remaining artefacts of the ballet – the Stravinsky score, grainy photographs of the dancers and images of the costumes created for the ballet by Henri Matisse – together with strands of rumour, myth and anecdote, Spong creates a film both tragic and triumphant. At once a dance of mourning for that which has been lost and a celebration of the synthesis between body, costume, image and movement, Spong's film is a reflection on the possibility of recording and transmitting history through an appropriated aesthetic or performative re-enactment. Costume for a Mourner is accompanied by Field Figures, a sculpture comprised of two interlocking forms - the diamond and the circle. Influenced by the symmetry of Balinese offerings, Field Figures uses the weight and interlocked intimacy of these forms to hold colour correction filters used in stage lighting, photography, television and cinematography. Borrowing its name from American choreographer Glen Tetley’s 1970 ballet, the mobile uses continual movement to depict balance as a constant state - like a dancer, it keeps strength and fragility, intimacy and distance, in perpetual harmony. Sriwhana Spong was born in Auckland in 1979 of New Zealand and Balinese heritage. Since graduating from the University of Auckland Elam School of Fine Arts in 2001 Spong’s work has been exhibited throughout Australasia and more recently in the USA and Europe. Exhibition opening preview Wednesday 27 January from 6 - 8pm. Image: Sriwhana Spong, Costume for a Mourner, 2010 (still)

Dates: Wed 27 Jan 10 - Sat 06 Mar 10, on Sat, 11:00am - 3:00pm. Wed 27 Jan 10 - Sat 06 Mar 10, on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 11:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: Michael Lett
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Bill Toomath: Liberating Everyday Life

City Gallery Wellington is celebrating his 60 year career with Architect Bill Toomath: Liberating Everyday Life, 29 January –14 March 2010. This exhibition focuses on Bill Toomath's articulation of open planning, a key modernist concept, through three major projects. It is the first in a staggered series of architecture-based exhibitions, and will be supported by a strong programme of architecture-related public events. Without the impact of Bill Toomath, Wellington would be a very different place. His architectural thinking has left its signature on the city, while as educator and mentor he continues to influence many young architects and students. A pioneer of modernist architecture in New Zealand, Toomath’s impact on Wellington’s architecture can be seen in projects such as the Wellington Teachers' College, Wool House and Toomath House. Behind the scenes his practice has been equally far-reaching. A life member of the Wellington Architectural Centre, Toomath has been a vital advocate for several heritage buildings, stopping the demolition of the Old Town Hall, and campaigning to save Old St Pauls. As Head of Wellington Polytechnic’s School of Design from 1979-1989 he helped shape a generation of New Zealand architects and designers. Image: Toomath House interior, Lower Hutt, 1950. Designed by Bill Toomath. Photograph by Gordon H Burt Ltd. (Ron Redfern photog).

Dates: Fri 29 Jan 10 - Sun 14 Mar 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: City Gallery
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

New Zealand Open Print Show

Art at Wharepuke presents a specially selected selected exhibition of works by New Zealand printmakers, on display from January 29th - February 28th 2010. The show will also be exchanged with the Zea Mays Print Studio in Massachusetts, USA. and tour in the USA. Art at Wharepuke is a new purpose built gallery space exhibiting NZ and international artists. The gallery specialises in exhibiting printmaking but will also be showing paintings, ceramics, jewellery, photography, sculpture, installation and video work. There is also a Cafe/restaurant, Tourist accommodation and Nontoxic printmaking studio on-site in 5 acres of award winning garden.

Dates: Fri 29 Jan 10 - Sun 28 Feb 10, every day, 9:00am.
Venue: Art at Wharepuke
Region: Northland
Cost: Free

Elizabeth Rees: In Motion (2010)

Milford Galleries Dunedin invite you to view 'In Motion' a new exhibition of works by Elizabeth Rees, on display from 30 January - 25 February 2010.

Dates: Sat 30 Jan 10 - Wed 24 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 9:00am - 5:30pm. Sat 30 Jan 10 - Wed 24 Feb 10, on Sat, 10:00am - 4:00pm. Sat 30 Jan 10 - Thu 25 Feb 10, every day, 9:00am - 5:30pm.
Venue: Milford Galleries Dunedin
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Trevor Byron: Mineral/Vegetable

AVID Gallery present an exhibition of works by jeweller,Trevor Byron, from his secluded workshop in the countryside near Wellington. His unique and somewhat humorous take on life shows in his quirky brooches, and his love of nature is evident in his flower-based earrings and brooches. In this new collection of necklaces, Trevor uses a variety of woods including ebony, swamp kauri and lignum vitae together with silver and a touch of gold.

Dates: Sat 30 Jan 10 - Sat 13 Feb 10, on Sat, 10:00am - 3:00pm. Sat 30 Jan 10 - Sat 13 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: AVID Gallery
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Louise Thompson Parker and Judy Ringland Stewart: Pottery Exhibition

The Stuart St Potters Co-operative presents an exhibition of works by Louise Thompson Parker & Judy Ringland Stewart, on display from February 1st - 14th 2010. The Stuart St Potters Co-operative are a group of local potters and ceramicists who have joined together to run a shop and gallery at 14 Lower Stuart St. Besides selling and exhibiting pottery and ceramics, the group aims to promote local potters and artists working with clay. Open Monday-Friday: 10am - 5pm; Saturdays: 9am - 3pm.

Dates: Mon 01 Feb 10 - Sun 14 Feb 10, on Sat, 9:00am - 3:00pm. Mon 01 Feb 10 - Sun 14 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Potters Co-op gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Matamata Sculpture Symposium

The 21st Matamata Sculpture Symposium will take place from 1 - 13 February 2010. There will be a public auction of Hinuera stone sculptures at 11am on Saturday 13th February at the Railside, 41 Hetana St. in Matamata.

Dates: Mon 01 Feb 10 - Sat 13 Feb 10, every day, 6:00am - 8:00pm.
Venue: Railside Green
Region: Waikato
Cost: Participants $100, Spectators free.

Ross T Smith: + Linger

Bartley + Company Art is proud to present an exhibition of pinhole photographs by Ross T Smith, on display from 2 - 27 February 2010. Summertime is a good time to slow down, to take time and to linger with things and that is exactly what photographer Ross T Smith has done and is asking viewers to do with his new body of pinhole photographs. Smith first came to prominence a decade ago with his poignant portraits of young Maori in the Hokianga, which are in the collection of the Auckland Art Gallery. Now he has turned his attention to the most primitive of cameras which is a way of looking diametrically opposed to the fast glance fostered in today’s visually saturated contemporary world. The pinhole photographs which are dark, grey, quiet and beautiful play with notions of memory, time and silence. The photographs are hand-made using traditional darkroom techniques. The exposures are long – 20-60 minutes – depending on light and location. The ‘camera’ is a cardboard box - there is no hi-tech interference at all; no lens, no shutter, no moving parts, no mechanisms. The selenium toned prints are double landscapes – two negatives, two exposures, contact printed together. They are handled before exposure and so show smudges and fingerprints as a memory of the hand of the artist. Image: Ross T Smith, Karekare, 2008

Dates: Tue 02 Feb 10 - Sat 27 Feb 10, on Sat, 11:00am - 3:00pm. Tue 02 Feb 10 - Sat 27 Feb 10, on Wed, Thu, Fri, 11:00am - 5:30pm.
Venue: Bartley and Company Art
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Lauryne Hart

Auckland’s former South African artist Lauryne Hart will provide an impassioned view on people at a major solo exhibition in Takapuna, Auckland, next month. Lauryne Hart moved to New Zealand 12 years ago but still has a passion for the people and colour of her home country. Although Hart trained as a draughtsman she has painted all her adult life. She gave up her job as a North Shore insurance broker last May to go painting fulltime. Hart said she loves painting people of Africa - with their love of life and vibrancy of colour and speech. No one dresses in black - they dress in all the colours of the rainbow. ``South Africa contains many and varied cultures. A similar melting pot of cultures exists in New Zealand, the country I now call home. This gives me continued inspiration to show the oneness we experience despite our differences. The subjects of my paintings are not the landscapes of a particular time or place, but rather the people of all times and places.’’ The works range from $600 to $2900.

Dates: Tue 02 Feb 10 - Fri 26 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: Bruce Mason Centre
Region: Auckland
Cost: tbc

Stephen Bradbourne: Old Thread / New Thread

AVID Gallery presents Old Thread / New Thread an exhibition of glass artworks by Stephen Bradbourne. In this exhibition of new work, well-known New Zealand glass blower Stephen Bradbourne continues to create beautiful vessels using traditional Italian techniques, but with a renewed focus on some different "twisted cane" styles. All work is for sale

Dates: Tue 02 Feb 10 - Sat 13 Feb 10, on Sat, 10:00am - 3:00pm. Tue 02 Feb 10 - Sat 13 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: AVID Gallery
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Krystie Wade

Whitespace presents an exhibition of new paintings by Krystie Wade.

Dates: Tue 02 Feb 10 - Sat 20 Feb 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Whitespace
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Changing Views

The Arthouse presents 'Changing Views' A frequently changing exhibition of the artworks by your favourite artists, on display from 3 - 28 February 2010. Image: Plain Song, Hymn to Light, For Spring, 2008, by J S Parker.

Dates: Wed 03 Feb 10 - Sun 28 Feb 10, on Sat, Sun, 12:00pm - 5:00pm. Wed 03 Feb 10 - Sun 28 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 12:00pm - 6:00pm.
Venue: The ArtHouse
Region: Canterbury
Cost: tbc

Kamini Nair: 'Yellow, Pink, Red, Orange'

The SandZ Studio invite you to view an exhibition of works by Kamini Nair, on display at the Arts Post Gallery from 5 February - 1 March 2010. 'Yellow, Pink, Red, Orange' features large scale vibrant works depicting Kamini's passion for flowers. Exhibition opening preview 4 February at 5.30pm.

Dates: Fri 05 Feb 10 - Mon 01 Mar 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 8:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: ArtsPost
Region: Waikato
Cost: Free

Barbara von Seida: Essential Landforms - A Painterly Approach

The ArtsPost Gallery in Hamilton invites you to view an exhibition of works by Barbara von Seida, on display from 5 February - 1 March 2010. Exhibition opening preview 4 February at 5.30pm.

Dates: Fri 05 Feb 10 - Mon 01 Mar 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 8:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: ArtsPost
Region: Waikato
Cost: Free

Joy Yeates Ross: Walk and Wonder

The ArtsPost Gallery in Hamilton invites you to view an exhibition of works by Joy Yeates Ross, on display from 5 February - 1 March 2010. Exhibition opening preview 4 February at 5.30pm.

Dates: Fri 05 Feb 10 - Mon 01 Mar 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 8:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: ArtsPost
Region: Waikato
Cost: Free

Kelly, Knoebel, Roeth, Bambury, Innes, Judd

Jensen Gallery starts the year with a group show of works by: Ellsworth Kelly, Imi Knoebel, Winston Roeth, Stephen Bambury, Callum Innes and Donald Judd. Opening function: 6pm Thursday 4th February 2010

Dates: Thu 04 Feb 10, 6:00pm - 8:00pm. Fri 05 Feb 10 - Sat 06 Mar 10, on Sat, 11:00am - 2:00pm. Fri 05 Feb 10 - Sat 06 Mar 10, on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 11:00am - 5:30pm.
Venue: Jensen Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Source: A Contemporary Feminine Aesthetic

The ‘Source’ exhibition and art project aims at celebrating gender and overcoming some of the challenges experienced by women artists today. Given the provocation ‘to revisit the notion of a feminine aesthetic,( a highly contested feminist art discourse of the eighties),, nine Hawke’s Bay women gathered at each other’s studios to discuss emerging themes and provide constructive criticism as the work evolved. In some cases it has fostered cross-pollination of media practice and collaboration between parties. The women have a diverse skill base and highly individual practice. Their differing backgrounds, ages, and life experience are connected by their experiences as women, and this has manifested itself in the exhibition. Co-curator and Director of the Gallery writes in the catalogue for the exhibition “ These women are empowered, productive contemporary New Zealand artists, worthy of following, watching and collecting. They lay bare their most personal politics, struggles, histories and love of life, so that you might consider them as more than the human condition at its source”. The exhibition runs from 6 February until 23 March 2010. There is a fantastic public programme of artist talks and workshops over the six week period. Check the Hastings City Art Gallery website for details.

Dates: Sat 06 Feb 10 - Tue 23 Mar 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Hastings City Art Gallery
Region: Hawke's Bay
Cost: Free

The Blue Room

The Blue Room was a house in Dunedin where Spiritualists Clive Chapman and his niece Pearl Judd conducted séances in the 1920s. The Blue Room then moved to Masterton in the 1930s where they found a receptive audience. Spiritualists believe that the spirit of a person exists beyond their body and that the living can communicate with the dead. This exhibition presents work by 13 artists who were invited to respond to the idea of the ʻBlue Roomʼ and the psychic activity that took place there. Through their individual reflections, the artists also offer a wider view on perceptions of the paranormal in the contemporary world. Some of the artists have approached the topic as believers and some as sceptics. Today there is a proliferation of television programmes featuring psychics, ʻAsk a Psychicʼ magazine columns, and growing communities of spell sellers and psychic mediums online and performing on stages around the globe. Does all this suggest an increasing belief in psychic phenomena? Could it be that in a time of global economic crisis and all manner of other potential crises, itʼs comforting to believe that there is more to this world of ours than the physical and rational?

Dates: Sat 06 Feb 10 - Sun 18 Apr 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Hastings City Art Gallery
Region: Hawke's Bay
Cost: Free

Late Night Art Parnell

It’s summer and what better way to while away an evening than a sumptuous dinner in Parnell followed by a leisurely stroll amongst some of New Zealand’s finest galleries to plan your first artistic indulgence for 2010. Next Thursday, Parnell galleries will again be open late for you to sip wine and take your time perusing Parnell’s contemporary, traditional and cutting edge array of fine art. This sociable event centres on the cluster of galleries located in the middle of Parnell Road: Aesthete Gallery, ARTIS Gallery, essenze, Mana Gallery, International Art Centre, Jonathan Grant Galleries, Pankhurst Studio Gallery, Parnell Gallery and Sanderson Contemporary Art all open for viewing until 7.30pm. Who’s cooking? For the first time in New Zealand, International Art Centre introduces the “edgy” animal portraits of Melbourne artist, Tracy Ellerton; as well as the unique neo-classical portraits of Omaru-based artist Donna Demente. Sanderson Contemporary Art is pleased to present “Advent” featuring a range of work from its stable of exciting artists indicating what's in store for 2010. Aesthete Gallery’s Summer Group Show features one work each from painters Alan Taylor, Carl Foster, Gareth Price, Harry Wong, Lisa Christiansen, Ian Kingston; and sculptures Mark Sandman, and Bay Riddell. Artis Gallery houses a constantly changing exhibition of works by Ray Ching, Peter Siddell, John McLean, George Baloghy, Siavash Momeny, Di French and Jim Wheeler to name a few. While Jonathan Grant Galleries reacquaints you with works by Sir Peter Siddell, Peter Beadle, and John Yardly RI. This tempting smorgasbord is served with an accompaniment of local music. Billy Joel impersonator, and winner of Stars in Your Eyes, Derryn Trayner, will tickle the keys outside Jonathan Grant Galleries; and in the courtyard between Sanderson Contemporary Art and Aesthete galleries enjoy jazz duo, Moonlighters. Late Night Art, Parnell lets you peruse the artwork you love at your leisure. Visit www.parnell.net.nz for more information.

Dates: Thu 14 Jan 10, 5:30pm - 7:30pm. Thu 11 Feb 10, 5:30pm - 7:30pm. Mon 08 Mar 10, 5:30pm - 7:30pm. Thu 08 Apr 10, 5:30pm - 7:30pm. Thu 13 May 10, 5:30pm - 7:30pm. Thu 10 Jun 10, 5:30pm - 7:30pm.
Venue: Various: Parnell
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

The Sculpture Season

The 2010 Sculpture Season, at ST PAUL St Gallery Three, is an opportunity to experience the diversity of current sculptural practice in New Zealand. Over the course of the season new work from eleven artists; William Hsu, Kah Bee Chow, Clara Chon, Carol Lee-Honson, Tiffany Rewa Newrick, Diane Atkinson, Museum of True History (MOTH), Erica van Zon, Anthony Cribb, Agnes So and Nick Spratt, will presented in six two week long exhibitions. Throughout the season the artists will connect with the idea of sculpture in many ways. Making works that range from hand laboured models and exquisitely crafted objects, to ephemeral performative actions such as trying to capture light, or define a sculptural space by filling it with movement; their works trace a trajectory between two trends in sculptural engagement, on one end the production of the sculptural object, and on the other, its dematerialisation The artists present multiple possibilities for engaging with the world through sculpture. Accessing disciplines as diverse as history, sociology, philosophy, politics, botany, ecology and geology they use the process of research to expand the arena of their art. They meld this research with the personal gesture or action, through this stepping away from the academic connotations of research and accessing forms of communication predicated on the idiosyncratic experiment, the personal connection and the heroic task. February 11 - 20: William Hsu February 25 - March 6: Kah Bee Chow and Clara Chon March 11 - 20: Carol Lee-Honson and Tiffany Rewa Newrick March 25 - April 3: Diane Atkinson April 8 - 17: Museum of True History (MOTH) and Erica van Zon April 22 - May 1: Anthony Cribb and Agnes So The Sculpture Season will be accompanied by a catalogue incorporating an art work by Nick Spratt. The 2010 Sculpture Season is curated by Melissa Laing.

Dates: Thu 11 Feb 10 - Sat 01 May 10, on Thu, Fri, Sat, 12:00pm - 5:00pm.
Venue: St Paul St Gallery 3
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

William Hsu - The Sculpture Season

The Sculpture Season launches on February 11 with an exhibition by William Hsu, an artist whose work explores the properties of the site it occupies. Responding to the context and history of the building at 39 Symonds St, Hsu is creating a number of site specific, time bound interventions in the gallery, provoking new ways of thinking about the space. The 2010 Sculpture Season, at ST PAUL St Gallery Three, is an opportunity to experience the diversity of current sculptural practice in New Zealand. Over the course of the season new work from eleven artists; William Hsu, Kah Bee Chow, Clara Chon, Carol Lee-Honson, Tiffany Rewa Newrick, Diane Atkinson, Museum of True History (MOTH), Erica van Zon, Anthony Cribb, Agnes So and Nick Spratt, will presented in six two week long exhibitions.

Dates: Thu 11 Feb 10 - Sat 20 Feb 10, on Thu, Fri, Sat, 12:00pm - 5:00pm.
Venue: St Paul St Gallery 3
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Clare Plug: Look South

Te Manawa invite you to view an exhibition of textile works by Clare Plug. Clare Plug is one of New Zealand’s leading applied artists. She approaches her quilts in a way that responds to the world of contemporary art, rather than to traditional quilting or embroidery. Look South is Clare’s response to Antarctica, presenting a series of quilts and banners which tease out the relationships between human culture and this icy continent. Exhibition toured by Hawke’s Bay Museum and Art Gallery, and supported by Antarctica New Zealand, Creative New Zealand and the Mary Vigor Brown Trust.

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10 - Mon 05 Apr 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Te Manawa
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: Free

I Must Learn to Like Myself

Don't miss the chance to see the art of Richard Lewer, our local boy, in his first solo exhibition of major significance in New Zealand. A stalker in his own life and in ours Richard Lewer is a prominent artist who is receiving national and international recognition for his art practice. Artist Talk: The Waikato Museum welcomes artist Richard Lewer as he gives a public artist talk about his exhibition.

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10 - Sun 15 Aug 10, every day, 10:00pm - 4:30pm.
Venue: Waikato Museum
Region: Waikato
Cost: Free

Seung Yul Oh: Bogle Bogle

TheNewDowse invite you to view 'Bogle Bogle' a new exhibition of works by Seung Yul Oh, on display from 13 February - 30 May 2010. Bubble, bubble, bogle and trouble… the work of hot, young Auckland artist Seung Yul Oh is full-of-beans. His newly-commissioned show Bogle Bogle opens with a bounce at TheNewDowse on February 13 for the arts festival season and will delight visitors with its mischievous, animal-like shapes and forms. Known to Wellington audiences for Oddooki, five rocking egg-shaped birds recently displayed on Te Papa’s sculpture terrace, Oh’s work combines elements of East Asian pop culture with ironic references to Western modern art. Humour is the unifying theme in all his colourful creations and sometimes also extends to the delivery of his work - while at art school he had a one night exhibition at which he battered and deep-fried all his paintings, invoking Kiwi-style fish‘n’chips. Oh's choice of materials is often as playful and childlike as his works, in the past he has used expanded foam, balloons and popcorn. These contribute to the seemingly effortless nature of Oh’s works, which are actually the result of many hours of intensive labour. Image: Seung Yul Oh - Doongle Dongle, 2009 Collection of TheNewDowse

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10 - Sun 30 May 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 4:30pm. Sat 13 Feb 10 - Sun 30 May 10, on Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: The New Dowse
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

'Walking Art': Images from NZ Body Art Awards

The Taupo Museum presents 'Walking Art' an exhibition of images from the NZ Body Art Awards taken by photographer Gino Demeer. This exhibition will be held in conjunction with the displays, workshops and activities associated with the NZ Festival of Body Art. Taupo is visionary by staging this popular event. The general theme for 2010 is Maori Myths and Legends. The week of activities will culminate in the Grand Opening at the Taupo Unison Ampitheatre on Friday 19 February 2010 at 6pm.

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10 - Tue 09 Mar 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30am.
Venue: Taupo Museum
Region: Waikato
Cost: Adults $5, children $3, concession $3, Taupo Residents Free

Drawing Conclusions

Works of art are typically the result of months of preparation - the final conclusions of jottings, drawings, sketches and exploratory paintings. Drawing Conclusions presents major works from TheNewDowse’s collection by Ralph Hotere, Colin McCahon, Don Peebles and Gordon Walters alongside preparatory works that provide a glimpse into each artist’s working process.

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10 - Sun 30 May 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 4:30pm. Sat 13 Feb 10 - Sun 30 May 10, on Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: The New Dowse
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Art that Moves: The Work of Len Lye - Gregory Bennett Talk

Like Len Lye, digital artist Gregory Bennett is interested in bodily kinesthetics and patterns of movement, often influenced by music and sound. Bennett, who will discuss the theories of sound and motion in own his work, completed a MFA at Elam in 2004 and is now a senior lecturer at AUT. Saturday 30 January 2010 at 1pm *** ‘Art that Moves’, the present exhibition of Lye’s films and sculptures, is the first at a public gallery in Auckland since 1980. Len Lye (1901-1980) is one of the most original artists to have emerged from New Zealand. The exhibition explores Lye’s intense engagement with what he called the ‘magical mystery’ of motion. In addition to films and kinetic sculptures, there are paintings and photograms to represent other areas of his work and to illustrate the implied movement in his static images. 'Art that Moves' The work of Len Lye, is on display from 27 November 2009 - 13 February 2010. The exhibition is linked with the publication of two new books: Art that Moves: The Work of Len Lye by Roger Horrocks (AUP), and Body English: Texts and Doodles by Len Lye (Holloway Press). Image: Len Lye in the 1960s with a version of his sculpture Wind Wand. Courtesy Len Lye Foundation.

Dates: Sat 13 Feb 10, 1:00pm - 2:00pm.
Venue: The Gus Fisher Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Yi Lang Chen: Patterns In Ivy

The Corban Estate Arts Centre present s a new exhibition of works by Yi Lang Chen, on display from January 15 to February 21, 2010. Yi lang paints as a technical exercise. His hyperreal works show little sign of gestural strokes; a strand of hair is not expressed with a cursive brush line but is recognisable as a cluster of tones. He describes his technique as mechanical and systematic and the end results, brutal and raw, which is why he is fascinated by the poetic reactions he often gets from viewers.

Dates: Mon 15 Feb 10 - Sun 21 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Corban Estate Arts Centre
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Jo Howard and Peter Gregory: Pottery Exhibition

The Stuart St Potters Co-operative presents an exhibition of works by Jo Howard and Peter Gregory, on display from February 15th - 28th 2010. The Stuart St Potters Co-operative are a group of local potters and ceramicists who have joined together to run a shop and gallery at 14 Lower Stuart St. Besides selling and exhibiting pottery and ceramics, the group aims to promote local potters and artists working with clay. Open Monday-Friday: 10am - 5pm; Saturdays: 9am - 3pm.

Dates: Mon 15 Feb 10 - Sun 28 Feb 10, on Sat, 9:00am - 3:00pm. Mon 15 Feb 10 - Sun 28 Feb 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Potters Co-op gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival: NZ Painting and Printmaking Award

This year marks the tenth anniversary of the New Zealand Painting and Printmaking Award. 247 entries were received and 51 have been selected as exhibition finalists by our judge, Dr Lesley Duxbury, a practising artist herself and Associate Professor in the School of Art, RMIT. Melbourne. Finalists from Otago to Northland are represented with ten from the Waikato. Prize money this year has been increased to $20,000 thanks to the generosity of our principal sponsor-the Philip Vela Family Trust. The Gala Champagne Award Announcement begins at 6pm Friday February 19. Tickets available from WSA, 120 Victoria St. The works will be on display from 20 February – 4 March 2010, 12noon - 6pm daily. *** The annual Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival has a range of events to attend including music, theatre, comedic acts, film, visual arts and many more. 19 February - 4 March 2010 at the Hamilton Gardens on Cobham Drive. Get on the website and start marking them on your calendar! For more details visit: www.hamiltongardensartsfestival.co.nz

Dates: Fri 19 Feb 10, 6:00pm. Sat 20 Feb 10 - Thu 04 Mar 10, every day, 12:00pm - 6:00pm.
Venue: Hamilton Gardens
Region: Waikato
Cost: Free

The Crescent Moon: The Asian Face of Islam in New Zealand

The Crescent Moon: The Asian Face of Islam in New Zealand is an exhibition documenting the everyday experiences of Asian Muslims living in New Zealand. Renowned photographer Ans Westra travelled the length of New Zealand “catching up with people in their everyday lives”. She met a diverse group of lawyers, farmers, computer trainers, butchers, fourth generation New Zealanders and new migrants. Exhibition Location: UCOL The Crescent Moon is an Asia NZ Foundation project.

Dates: Sat 20 Feb 10 - Sun 02 May 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Te Manawa
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: Free

Edith Amituanai: La Fine Del Mondo

The Corban Estate Arts Centre invite you to view a new exhibition of works by Edith Amituanai, on display from February 26 to April 11, 2010. In her latest exhibition, Edith examines the resettlement of the Lai family in West Auckland. She has created a series of portraits of Burmese refugees living in her own suburb. Her photographic investigation highlights how immigrants adjust to their new environment’s climate, language, new systems and finding their place in their new communities. Edith’s work comments on the experience of feeling like being in two places simultaneously, one in the new adopted country and the other placed in the ancestral homeland.

Dates: Thu 25 Feb 10 - Sun 11 Apr 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Corban Estate Arts Centre
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Mercury Bay Art Escape 2010

Mercury Bay Art Escape is a free self drive art tour of open art studios around Mercury Bay over 2 long weekends in February and March 2010. 39 Coromandel artists are opening their homes and studios to the public, along with gallery exhibitions and food and music events. See the best in Coromandel arts and meet the artists in their studios. The diverse group of working artists includes painters, sculptors, jewellers, printmakers and ceramic artists. There will be lots of great NZ Art for sale, plus music and associated art events. Look out for the bright yellow flags! Opening Reception-to be held on Friday February 26th 2010. Visit www.mercurybayartescape.com for more information.

Dates: Fri 26 Feb 10 - Sun 28 Feb 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:00pm. Fri 05 Mar 10 - Sun 07 Mar 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: Various - Mercury Bay
Region: Waikato
Cost: Free

Paul Forrest: Artist Residency and Exhibition

View an art exhibition with a difference - works by Paul Forrest in the Michael Fowler Centre from 26th February – 21st March as a part of Fringe 2010. Oil Painter Paul Forrest’s creations look like a mix of modern hieroglyphics and maps of other dimensions. He’s interested in creating paintings that people can look at for hours and constantly see knew things whilst being seduced by the richness of colour and compositional structure. The centre piece of this show entitled ‘Godwits in Tokyo’ explores the layering of blocks of bright neon colours to give the viewer a sense of walking down a busy street in Tokyo at night. On closer inspection these neon signs are filled with miniature humans looking out at you, some waving others just observing the scene outside the picture frame. Paul has become a regular at festival time with this being his 4th residency in the Michael Fowler Centre foyer and has been working on this exhibition for the last 2 years. For the duration of the exhibition Paul will be in the foyer working away at his easel creating new paintings and providing people the opportunity to meet the artist at work. Paul Forrest thrives on being an exhibitionist at his exhibitions – How rare is it to actually meet an artist in the process of creating works? “In my opinion this is my most original and uncompromising body of work yet and I hope as many people as possible get to see it”, says Paul Open daily 10.00 am – Late. Admission is Free Visit www.paulforrest.co.nz for a preview.

Dates: Fri 26 Feb 10 - Sun 21 Mar 10, every day, 10:00am.
Venue: Michael Fowler Centre
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

2010 New Zealand International Arts Festival Wellington

The 2010 New Zealand International Arts Festival brings the world’s best dance, theatre, film, music, literature and visual arts to Wellington. The 2010 Festival runs from 26 February to 21 March in Wellington and includes New Zealand Post Writers and Readers Week (9-14 March). New Zealand’s première cultural event and one of the leading multi-arts festivals in the world, the Festival presents a wide-ranging programme of the best international and New Zealand artistic works. Festival 2010 features award-winning theatre that pushes boundaries, with Sound of Silence- a play without words, to the re-staging of Apollo 13, an unforgettable, interactive theatre experience. From the breathtaking sequence of movement and martial arts of Shaolin monks in Sutra, to the visionary choreography of Good Morning, Mr. Gershwin, the Festival’s dance programme reveals a deep curiosity concerning cultures and genres. The monumental music events range from Mahler Symphony No. 8 led by world renowned conductor Vladimir Ashkenazy, to the legendary sitar virtuoso Ravi Shankar and jazz great Branford Marsalis. Renowned authors, including Neil Gaiman, Richard Dawkins and Simon Schama, will challenge and entertain at New Zealand Post Writers and Readers Week. The Festival happens in venues across Wellington and the Wellington region. In 2010 the beating heart of the Festival will be the Pacific Blue Festival Club ― an exciting new space at Shed 6 on the Capital’s picturesque waterfront. It’s where you can check out live music in the early evening, then catch a late night theatre show or hang out at the bar. The Club is the perfect place to soak up the Festival atmosphere. To find out more, preview shows and events and book tickets visit www.nzfestival.nzpost.co.nz

Dates: Fri 26 Feb 10 - Sun 21 Mar 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Various - Wellington
Region: Wellington
Cost: tbc

Rosemary McQueen and Paddy Carr: Pottery Exhibition

The Stuart St Potters Co-operative presents an exhibition of works by Rosemary McQueen and Paddy Carr, on display from March 1st - 14th 2010. The Stuart St Potters Co-operative are a group of local potters and ceramicists who have joined together to run a shop and gallery at 14 Lower Stuart St. Besides selling and exhibiting pottery and ceramics, the group aims to promote local potters and artists working with clay. Open Monday-Friday: 10am - 5pm; Saturdays: 9am - 3pm.

Dates: Mon 01 Mar 10 - Sun 14 Mar 10, on Sat, 9:00am - 3:00pm. Mon 01 Mar 10 - Sun 14 Mar 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Potters Co-op gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Art Talk: Visual Arts

Join both local and international curators and artists to discuss their work. As part of the New Zealand International Arts Festival.

Dates: Thu 04 Mar 10, 5:30pm - 6:30pm.
Venue: City Gallery
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Art in the Park 2010 - Greymouth

All of your senses will be tantalised as you take in the talents and skills on display at the fourth Art in the Park event to be held on the West Coast, at the historic goldmining village of Shantytown, Saturday March 6th 2010. Art in the Park is a day to celebrate the arts. There will be more than 50 talented artists from the West Coast of the Southern Alps exhibiting and selling their work. This year a few artists from off the Coast have accepted the invitation to display and sell their work at Art in the Park. They include painters, potters, jade carvers, flax weavers, quilters, and many more. Several artists will be in action creating artworks during the day. The day promises something to interest all ages. An Art Activity Marquee will be open to all ages - young people and adults – giving them the opportunity to explore different art techniques, make murals (to be placed in Albert Mall outside the Library) beadwork, painting etc. Some articles will be available to purchase and take home. Many other exciting activities.

Dates: Sat 06 Mar 10, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Shantytown
Region: West Coast
Cost: Gold coin donation.

Diaspora

This exhibition brings together the work of six very different New Zealand artists. The artists work in a variety of media, which covers the spectrum of current art approaches and is a grouping that has its basis in an exhibition – Ultramarte – that has toured Spain, Hong Kong and Tauranga. The new configuration places drawings by Richard Lewer and sculpture by Denis O’Connor alongside the photography of Fiona Pardington, and paintings by Gretchen Albrecht, Tony Lane and James Ross. Exhibition toured by Bill Millbank

Dates: Sat 06 Mar 10 - Fri 18 Jun 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Waikato Museum
Region: Waikato
Cost: Free

Tickle My Sense!

Can you imagine what art looks like by touching it? Can a photograph make you feel hungry? Do you remember sounds when you look at a picture? Enjoying art isn’t just about using your eyes! Art has the power to tickle all five of your senses. So come inside and look, listen, touch, taste and smell, and have your senses tickled by art. Including works by renowned NZ potter Len Castle, artists Ann Verdcourt, Richard Killeen, Gary Tricker, Fiona Clark, Garry Nash and more…

Dates: Sat 06 Mar 10 - Sun 13 Jun 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Waikato Museum
Region: Waikato
Cost: Child $3, Adult $5, Family Pass (2 adults and up to 4 children) $15, Adult Concession $4

Joanna Upperton: Intrepid Tuesday

The Warkwick Henderson Gallery invite you to view an exhibition of new paintings by Joanna Upperton, on display from 10 - 17 March 2010. Joanna is a Kerikeri artist whose work has a slightly surreal flavour. They are painted on board with an unusual and highly crazed clay surface. The resulting texture highlights the mood, depth and detail of the images. Exhibition opening preview 9th March 2010 from 5.30 - 7.30pm.

Dates: Wed 10 Mar 10 - Sat 27 Mar 10, on Sat, 10:00am - 4:00pm. Wed 10 Mar 10 - Sat 27 Mar 10, on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:30pm.
Venue: Warwick Henderson Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

The 4th Auckland Triennial - Last Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

New Zealand's foremost contemporary art exhibition starts the year off with a bang. The 4th Auckland Triennial: 'Last Ride in a Hot Air Balloon' will take place at galleries accross Auckland from 12 March to 20 June 2010. the Auckland Triennial will be the international contemporary art event of the year, with a thrilling line up of 29 artists from 18 different countries, Opening weekend events provide an invigorating start to the exhibition, with much discussion and debate and a chance to see artists from around the globe in person. For more information visit www.aucklandtriennial.com Presented by the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki with Auckland Triennial Partner AUT University in association with exhibition partners ARTSPACE, ST PAUL ST and The George Fraser Gallery.

Dates: Fri 12 Mar 10 - Sun 20 Jun 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Auckland City - various
Region: Auckland
Cost: tbc

Champions New Zealand Winners - Jessie Carson Photography

Photographer Jessie Carson set out on a journey around New Zealand to take iconic photographs of the people who live here. The portraits are the fruit of Jessie's desire to capture the dedication, self-belief and good old kiwi 'can-do' attitudes that make New Zealanders who they are. The 25 photos of Champions range from the female world shearer from Waikaretu to the coal shovelling champion from Hokitika.

Dates: Sat 13 Mar 10 - Tue 06 Apr 10, every day, 10:00am - 4:30am.
Venue: Taupo Museum
Region: Waikato
Cost: Adult $5, child free, concession $3, Taupo residents free

Dawn Palmer and Louise Thompson Parker: Pottery Exhibition

The Stuart St Potters Co-operative presents an exhibition of works by Dawn Palmer and Louise Thompson Parker, on display from March 15th - 28th 2010. The Stuart St Potters Co-operative are a group of local potters and ceramicists who have joined together to run a shop and gallery at 14 Lower Stuart St. Besides selling and exhibiting pottery and ceramics, the group aims to promote local potters and artists working with clay. Open Monday-Friday: 10am - 5pm; Saturdays: 9am - 3pm.

Dates: Mon 15 Mar 10 - Sun 28 Mar 10, on Sat, 9:00am - 3:00pm. Mon 15 Mar 10 - Sun 28 Mar 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Potters Co-op gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Nicole Kolig and Marion Familton: Pottery Exhibition

The Stuart St Potters Co-operative presents an exhibition of works by Nicole Kolig and Marion Familton, on display from March 29th - April 11th 2010. The Stuart St Potters Co-operative are a group of local potters and ceramicists who have joined together to run a shop and gallery at 14 Lower Stuart St. Besides selling and exhibiting pottery and ceramics, the group aims to promote local potters and artists working with clay. Open Monday-Friday: 10am - 5pm; Saturdays: 9am - 3pm.

Dates: Mon 29 Mar 10 - Sun 11 Apr 10, on Sat, 9:00am - 3:00pm. Mon 29 Mar 10 - Sun 11 Apr 10, on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Potters Co-op gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Double Shot: 'C'

STAMP at THE EDGE® presents 'C' a new multimedia work at the Auckland Town Hall Concert Chamber, December 2nd 2009 and March 31st 2010. Hip hop meets opera, meets a love story that will leave you breathless. Carmen comes from an explosive world of clubs, drugs and the pursuit of pleasure. Iosefa comes from a traditional world steeped in duty. They meet on a roof, one thinking the other’s going to jump, the other playing with death. In this volatile moment they discover they both share an extraordinary secret. It is a wild ride through the clubs, churches and hearts of young Auckland. ‘C’ crosses cultures, environments and boundaries. ‘C’ is about youth, about falling in love for the first time, about hoping to get laid, about wanting to take risks and push all the limits. A multi-disciplinary, multi-media feast of theatre, music and movement by John Gibson, Anna Marbrook and John Rosser. An unique opportunity to get artists and audiences working together. STAMP takes an original production that is in development, gives the company two opportunities to show their work in front of a live audience – with time in between each showing to refine the work. Composer - John Gibson Director - Anna Marbrook Writers - John Gibson, Anna Marbrook and John Rosser. Conductor - John Rosser Tickets are available from The EDGE Box Office. Phone: 09 357 3355.

Dates: Wed 31 Mar 10, 7:30pm.
Venue: Concert Chamber, Auckland Town Hall
Region: Auckland
Cost: Koha/Donation.

Funky Oriental Beats

For Future Purposes Productions in association with STAMP at The EDGE presents Funky Oriental Beats, a tasty yum cha feast of poetry, music, rap and moving image at the Limelight in Auckland. Funky Oriental Beats started as a platform for Kiwi-Asian performing artists to reach out to the wider community and showcase their unique work. Our voices come from the collision of cultures. Now three years and two concerts on, FOB is evolving. Following intensive writing and performance workshops, veteran performers are joined by fresh new voices showcasing the best of contemporary Kiwi-Asian performance. Nothing is certain – everything is new. We seek to challenge, inspire and amaze you. And to treasure our stories, which are also yours. If you are of Asian or part Asian heritage and would like to take part in the workshops, contact Renee Liang on docrnz@gmail.com. Workshops take place in late March to mid April. Creative directors: Renee Liang David Tsai Proudly supported by Creative Communities NZ and Auckland City Council. Tickets are available from The EDGE Box Office. Phone: 09 357 3355.

Dates: Thu 15 Apr 10, 7:30pm. Fri 16 Apr 10, 7:30pm.
Venue: Limelight
Region: Auckland
Cost: Adults $15, Concession $12 plus booking fees.

Rozi Demant: Portraits

The Warkwick Henderson Gallery presents an exhibition of new works by Rozi Demant, on display from 5 - 29 May 2010. Exhibition opening preview 4th May 2010 from 5.30 - 7.30pm.

Dates: Wed 05 May 10 - Sat 29 May 10, on Sat, 10:00am - 4:00pm. Wed 05 May 10 - Sat 29 May 10, on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:30pm.
Venue: Warwick Henderson Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

ERUPT Lake Taupo Festival 2010

The ERUPT Lake Taupo Festival returns 6 – 16 May 2010 to move and shake us with a fresh and innovative programme including three hot festival commissions. The largest cultural event staged in Taupo region, the 8th ERUPT Lake Taupo Festival offers everything from large scale outdoor events to intimate concerts - showcasing New Zealand and international theatre, dance, music, cabaret, comedy, visual arts and writing plus an array of community and education activities. The full ERUPT Lake Taupo Festival programme is being launched in February 2010 and the Festival will rumble for 11 action-packed days, 6-16 May 2010. Staged against a palette of blazing autumn colour and the volcanic plateau, ERUPT Lake Taupo Festival is a biennial calendar highlight for the central North Island region. Visit www.erupt.co.nz for the latest news.

Dates: Thu 06 May 10 - Sun 16 May 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Various - Taupo
Region: Waikato
Cost: tbc

2010 Costume and Textile Conference

TheNewDowse is delighted to announce it will be hosting the 9th annual Costume and Textile Conference on the 12 and 13 of June 2010 in the Lower Hutt Little Theatre. Historically, and within current practice, costume and textiles are synonymous with survival, and are certainly no stranger to disaster. The 2010 New Zealand Costume and Textile Association conference will address the perilous theme of Hanging by a Thread. We look forward to receiving moving, inspirational, and thought provoking papers that tell tales of disaster and survival. You are invited to submit abstracts of no more than 300 words on the theme Hanging by Thread. Please include a short biography. Abstracts should be forwarded to Dr Jane Malthus by Friday 5 February 2010. • Postal address - Dr Jane Malthus, Traquair, 2000 Lee Stream-Outram Road, RD 2, Outram 9074 • Email: james.reid@xtra.co.nz Presented in partnership with the New Zealand Costume and Textile Association.

Dates: Sat 12 Jun 10 - Sun 13 Jun 10, every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: The New Dowse
Region: Wellington
Cost: tbc

Double Shot: Passage

Four Afloat Productions in association STAMP at THE EDGE® presents 'Passage' new multimedia work at the Auckland Town Hall Concert Chamber, December 5th 2009 and July 21st 2010. A small boat is suspended in a high sea when four women clamber aboard. They hide from the truth, push and kick, insult and lie. Lena will not sing, Rebecca will not share, Jude will not speak and Safar may die. Will they sink or swim in this sea of stories? These are taboo tales for troubled times. Passage is a multi-media performance which combines stunning visual images with text, film and physical theatre. The text has been inspired by a life-sized boat sculpture from the Brazilian artist Ana Maria Pacheco. Weaving themes of migration, identity, truth and reconciliation this is a new collaboration between Fiona Graham, Lauren Jackson and Stephen Bain. An unique opportunity to get artists and audiences working together. STAMP takes an original production that is in development, gives the company two opportunities to show their work in front of a live audience – with time in between each showing to refine the work. Tickets are available from The EDGE Box Office. Phone: 09 357 3355.

Dates: Wed 21 Jul 10, 7:00pm.
Venue: Concert Chamber, Auckland Town Hall
Region: Auckland
Cost: Koha/Donation

The Walters Prize Exhibition 2010

The Auckland Art Gallery invites you to view works from the 2010 Walters Prize contemporary art competition, on display from 24 July - 31 October 2010. The Walters Prize celebrates a decade as New Zealand's most prestigious contemporary art prize in 2010. The $50,000 prize is awarded biannually to recognise artists who have made an outstanding contribution to contemporary art in New Zealand in the past two years. Named in honour of artist Gordon Walters, the Prize was established by founding benefactors and principal donors Erika and Robin Congreve and Jenny Gibbs to make contemporary art a more widely recognised, debated and prominent feature of New Zealand cultural life.

Dates: Sat 24 Jul 10 - Sun 31 Oct 10, every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Auckland Art Gallery, New Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Sarjeant Gallery

Wanganui's Sarjeant Gallery is one of New Zealand's finest and most historically important art galleries, renowned for its neo-classical architecture, natural lighting and magnificent display spaces. The Gallery's permanent collection has over 6000 artworks which include a collection of early 19th and 20th century British and European works and contemporary New Zealand art, with photography as a key focus. Work by New Zealand artists was first acquired in 1926, and increasingly this has become the primary focus. The existing New Zealand collection is a significant and comprehensive holding of art from the 1840s until the present day. Major holdings of individual artists include Gretchen Albrecht, Robert McLeod, Warren Viscoe and Rodney Fumpston. The Sarjeant is committed to endorsing the profile of these and other artists both nationally and internationally. The Gallery's rich holdings of the works of Edith Collier and Philip Trusttum are amplified by very large loan collections.

Dates: every day, 10:30am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Sarjeant Gallery
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: Donation/koha

Bryce Brown Art Studio

Bryce Brown has aimed to capture the people and surroundings of the New Zealand landscape. His modernist influence mixed with New Zealand culture is evident in his recent figurative paintings and gives it a truly unique, international flavour. Visitors to New Zealand's Bay of Plenty are welcome to his Mt Maunganui Studio, just phone to make a time +64 7 577 1613. Image: Couple on a knoll 66 x 91 cm acrylic on canvas

Dates: every day, 10:00am.
Venue: Bryce Brown Art
Region: Bay of Plenty
Cost: Free

Moray Gallery

Moray Gallery is the home of original contemporary art, glass, ceramics and professional framing, offering the finest display from artists nation-wide. Moray features 19 artists and 9 ceramic artists, whilst representing glass artists Peter Viesnik, Garry Nash as Sunbeam Glass, Lynden Over as Lava Glass, Venus Glass, De Flute Studio Glass, Keith Mahy and Höglund Glass. The gallery also provides a fully comprehensive framing service.

Dates: on Sat, 10:00am - 2:00pm. on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:30pm.
Venue: Moray Gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Adrien Jennings Gallery

Visit Adrien Jennings Gallery on the North Shore and view original art created either by herself, her pupils, or other local professional artists. From traditional landscapes to a richly coloured collection of abstract works, this gallery has something to interest and inspire all. Her collection of art can be sold at affordable prices as there are no large commissions inflating the cost of the artwork or cost to the gallery. Adrien does a lot of commission work. If you have a favorite scene, or would like a portrait of your pet or just an idea of something you would like - it can be done for you - any size, and any medium. Gallery Hours: Wednesday to Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday 11.30am - 5pm

Dates: on Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, 9:00am - 5:00pm. on Sun, 11:30am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Adrien Jennings Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Seed Gallery

Seed Gallery is a commercial art gallery representing emerging and established artists from New Zealand and further afield. The gallery is committed to maintaining an energetic, vibrant, and accessible environment in which a diverse audience can experience and enjoy the visual arts. A seed may be small, but it is also robust, powerful, and full of potential. The gallery has a fabulous group of emerging artists, and is always looking for new and exciting work to show.

Dates: on Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 4:00pm. on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Seed Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Unknown

Brick Bay Sculpture Trail

The Brick Bay Sculpture Trail near Matakana showcases contemporary sculpture by established and emerging artists. Experience sculpture in a remarkable landscape framed by towering native trees and majestic palms, abundant birdlife and green pastures all overlooking the celebrated Brick Bay Vineyard. This is a unique outdoor gallery experience, where an ever-changing display of 25 to 30 works are sensitively sited along the 2km track. The trail is an easy one hour’s walk suitable for most ages and abilities. Designed by Noel Lane, the Glass House acts as a gateway to the Sculpture Trail and includes a resource centre where visitors can browse through art publications and the Brick Bay Sculpture archive at leisure. The Brick Bay Sculpture Trust operates as a charitable trust, with surplus revenue being available to assist selected artists in meeting the considerable expense of building outdoor works. Sculptures presented are new works selected by a curatorial panel and all works are for sale. Exhibits change regularly as sold works are replaced. Just 60 minutes north of Auckland. Open 7 days from 10am until 5pm. Please allow an hour to enjoy the trail. Photographer: Mark Smith Image credit: Virginia King, Sliver (2006)

Dates: every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Brick Bay Sculpture Trail
Region: Auckland
Cost: Adults $10, school/tertiary students $8

Wine Country Gallery

The largest dealer gallery in Hawke's Bay. Showcasing painting, ceramics, sculpture, glass, prints, designer furniture, and jewellery. Wine Country Gallery is also the only NZ outlet of dinosaur resin. Artists represented include: Jane Gray Daniel Smith David Trubridge Dennis Baker Ema Scott Emma Wright Fatu Feu'u Fiona Gedson Francois Aries Grant Whibley Hannah Jensen Heather Wilson Israel Birch Jason Braybrook Jennifer Griffin Jill Perrott Max Gimblett Michel Tuffery Peter Miller Renee Boyd Reuben Friend Richard Smith Tish Scott Natham Crossan Israel Birch Michael Tuffery

Dates: on Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: Wine Country Gallery
Region: Hawke's Bay
Cost: Free

SOLACE Art Gallery

SOLACE Art Gallery is a community run gallery. Since its inception in 2005 it has established itself as a place for emerging artists to exhibit their work alongside established artists and to experience gallery life. It is managed by the artists themselves, and is always looking out for new artists to support. Three times a year the gallery holds a feature exhibition, where a prominent artist exhibits and all other contributing and new artists are invited to submit all new works.

Dates: on Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: SOLACE Art Gallery
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Academy Galleries

Academy Galleries: New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts promotes and displays new works by New Zealand artists, both emerging and established. Academy Galleries is the public face of the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts, supporting New Zealand's emerging and established artists through the sale of New Zealand Art as well as fostering a national appreciation and pride of fine art produced by artists in this country.

Dates: every day, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Brighton Gallery

Brighton Gallery holds paintings by over 40 local artists. The gallery has monthly themed exhibitions, and also welcomes work by guest artists. Brighton Gallery offers a full programme of art related classes and also accepts commissions.

Dates: every day, 10:30am - 4:30pm.
Venue: Brighton Gallery
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Brooke Gifford Gallery

Brooke Gifford Gallery represents prominent New Zealand artists working in the fields of painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture. The gallery's representation of such leading artists as Bill Hammond and Terry Stringer is testament to its reputation as a leading contemporary art gallery. Over the past 30 years, the gallery has continued to foster emerging talent and now represents over 30 artists whose work is shown locally and internationally.

Dates: on Sat, 11:00am - 1:30pm. on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 11:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Brooke Gifford Gallery
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Len Lye Foundation: Exhibition Programme

Since receiving Len Lye's collection and archives in 1980, the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, in association with the Len Lye Foundation, has maintained a regular exhibition programme of Len Lye's works. Exhibitions of his works, and selected items from the comprehensive archives the Gallery holds, are held regularly. The fragile nature of many of the kinetic sculptures prevents the Gallery from exhibiting them permanently. Len Lye's Wind Wand on the New Plymouth foreshore and Water Whirler in Wellington provide year-round access to works developed by the Len Lye Foundation based on concepts and designs by the artist. The Gallery also assists with or produces national and international touring exhibitions of Lye's work. Exhibitions of Lye's work have recently shown in the Art Gallery of New South Wales, and the Centre Pompidou.

Dates: every day, 10:30am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
Region: Taranaki
Cost: Free

McCahon House

From 1953 Colin McCahon, his wife Anne and their four children William, Victoria, Catherine and Matthew, lived in a small house at 67 Otitori Bay Road, Titirangi, until they moved to Partridge Street, Arch Hill in 1960. McCahon made many alterations to the house in the years that the family lived there; some further changes were made after the McCahons left; but to a surprising extent the house has been preserved much as it was in 1960. The McCahon House Trust (with the support of the Waitakere City Council) has elected to purchase and preserve the house, partly in honour of Colin McCahon’s achievements as an artist during the years that he lived there. It is a highly characteristic example of the kind of dwelling—the weekend bach—that was very common half a century ago in places like Titirangi but which seldom survives in original condition today. The French Bay House represents a unique piece of cultural and social history.

Dates: on Wed, Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 2:00pm.
Venue: McCahon House
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Milford Galleries Queenstown

Milford Galleries Queenstown exhibits painting and a variety of other fine art media drawn from the studios of many significant New Zealand contemporary artists. This central Queenstown gallery also shows outstanding NZ traditional and colonial art. Gallery staff can advise on art investment, meet architect and designer briefs and provide a worldwide crate and freight service.

Dates: every day, 10:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: Milford Galleries Queenstown
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Blue Oyster Gallery

Blue Oyster Gallery is a contemporary art project space that encourages experimental and innovative art projects. The gallery presents a diverse range of artists and practices making curatorial decisions based on the depth and quality of the project regardless of career stage. Blue Oyster aims to broaden the interest and understanding of contemporary arts by providing a forum for discussion and debate regarding contemporary art issues.

Dates: on Sat, 12:00am - 3:00pm. on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 11:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Blue Oyster Gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

The Empire Gallery

The Empire Gallery is dedicated to original NZ art. It is both an exhibition space and open gallery, while it also runs art classes, and supplies art materials. Visit The Empire Gallery website for more information. Contact: Phone 07 827 3227 Fax 07 827 3778 Physical address: Cnr Empire & Alpha Streets Cambridge New Zealand All enquires: info@empiregallery.co.nz

Dates: on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: The Empire Gallery
Region: Waikato
Cost: Free

Millennium Public Art Gallery

The Millennium Art Gallery, Marlborough’s public art gallery, features a variety of curated exhibitions of national and regional artists, including major touring shows.

Dates: on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:30am - 4:30pm. on Sat, Sun, 1:00pm - 4:00pm.
Venue: Millennium Public Art Gallery
Region: Marlborough
Cost: Adult by donation, children free

Robin Scott Exhibition

See work by artist and painter Robin Scott. The exhibitions will be held on the first Saturday of every month in a garden setting. For more information about the artist's work visit Robin Scott's website.

Dates: on the 1st Saturday of every month, 11:00am - 1:00pm.
Venue: Robin Scott Exhibition Space
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Stuart St Potters Co-operative

A group of local potters and ceramicists who have joined together to run a shop and gallery at 14 Lower Stuart St. Besides selling and exhibiting pottery and ceramics, the group aims to promote local potters and artists working with clay. Current members are Nicole Kolig, Frank Hakkaart, Tony McManus, Riki Julin, Jo Howard, Marion Familton, Dawn Palmer, Judy Ringland-Stewart, Rosemary McQueen, A. Louise Thompson-Parker, Josephine Waring & Paddy Carr.

Dates: on Sat, 9:00am - 3:00pm. on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Potters Co-op gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

McNamara Gallery

McNamara Gallery Photography exhibits New Zealand, and selected Pacific Rim, photographically-based art. The gallery is dedicated to exhibiting and promoting the medium, and exploring the range of practice. McNamara Gallery's interest is fundamentally in modern and contemporary art practice; however, the gallery has an annual exhibition examining photographs from the 1960s-1980s and also exhibits selected work from earlier periods.

Dates: on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, 11:00am - 3:00pm.
Venue: McNamara Gallery Photography
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: Free

Toi o Tahuna

Visitors to Queenstown are able to enjoy the best of New Zealand art at Toi o Tahuna fine art gallery in Queenstown. Toi o Tahuna has the most comprehensive selection of contemporary Māori art of any dealer gallery in New Zealand. Some of our artists include Simon Kaan, Darcy Nicholas, Marilynn Webb, Lyonel Grant, Roi Toia, Todd Couper, Tracey Tawhioa, Jolene Douglas, Lewis Gardiner, Manos Nathan, Brian Strong, Jason Hicks, Emma Wright, John Badcock Aaron Kereopa and Sofia Minson. Toi o Tahuna is also a Toi Iho licensed stockist. Toi Iho is a registered trademark used to promote and sell authentic, quality Maori art. The creation of the mark was facilitated by Te Waka Toi, the Māori Arts Board of Creative New Zealand, in consultation with Māori artists. For more information visit the Toi o Tahuna Fine Art Gallery website. www.toi.co.nz

Dates: every day, 10:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: Toi o Tahuna Fine Art Gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Solander: Works on Paper

Solander: Works on Paper, Wellington's gallery dedicated to contemporary art on paper, has relocated from Lyall Bay to 218 Willis St in the inner city. The new large, street level space brings a significant presence for works on paper to the central city for the first time, and helps to build the growing arts precinct as a cultural destination. Solander: Works on Paper present new exhibitions every six weeks. See the gallery website for current and upcoming shows of drawings, papercuts and prints, including those done in mezzotint, drypoint, woodcut, and a range of other printmaking techniques. The gallery holds portfolios of works by Alexis Neal, Alex Milsom, Annie Smits Sandano, Basia Smolnicki, Catherine Macdonald, Cerisse Palalagi, Chris Adams, Damon Kowarsky, Deborah Barton, Emma McCleary, Fleur Williams, Inge Doesburg, Jenna Packer, John Callaghan, Joseph Michael, Karen Stevens, Kelvin Mann, Kim Lowe, Kyla Cresswell, Manu Berry, Manuel Lau, Maree Horner, Margaret Silverwood, Marian Maguire, Mark Graver, Marty Vreede, Nan Mulder, Natalie Couch, Rona Green, Ruth Green Cole, Sam Broad, Sheyne Tuffery, Stuart Duffin and Vanessa Edwards. Solander will also continue to consistently support emerging artists.

Dates: on Sat, 10:00am - 4:00pm. on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:30pm.
Venue: Solander: Works On Paper
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Wharf - A Place of Arrivals

The inaugural exhibition of The Thames Gallery, 'Wharf - place of arrivals'. The exhibition features 3 Thames artists: Renata Przynoga-Cousins, painting; Kate Ewing, contemporary jewellery and Peter James Quinn, photography. Official preview evening on Wednesday September 19th, 5:30 pm.

Dates: on Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, 11:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: The Thames Gallery
Region: Waikato
Cost: Free

Artis Gallery

Artis Gallery is a contemporary gallery with a diverse range of leading New Zealand painters, sculptors and photographers. It has a large open exhibition space and the exhibitions are changed regularly to offer fresh views and up to date displays. Gallery hours on Sunday are by appointment only. To find exhibitions and events at Artis Gallery please click on the organisation name below.

Dates: on Sun, 9:00am - 11:00pm. on Sat, 10:00am - 4:00pm. on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:30pm.
Venue: Artis Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

SOCA Gallery

SOCA gallery is a commercial gallery space in Auckland, showcasing top quality artworks by emerging and established contemporary New Zealand artists. Owners Charles Tongue and Ana Ivanovic-Tongue together have over 18 years of experience in the art world and are pleased to be continuing to provide their expertise in fine arts to their clientele in a new and upcoming creative pocket of the city. The gallery’s fortnightly exhibition programme features new work by well-known New Zealand artists such as: -- Piera McArthur -- Barry Ross Smith -- Cristina Popovici -- Mark Wooller -- Neal Palmer -- Andrea Hopkins -- Stephen Howard -- Nathan Mac Ryde -- Han Nae Kim -- Neil Driver -- Rudy van der Pol -- Donna Demente SOCA gallery offers a range of professional art services such as consultation to both private individuals and corporations on all aspects of collecting, valuations, restoration, International freight, crating and framing. As of recent, SOCA gallery has introduced safe storage for artworks with short-term or long-term arrangements offered.

Dates: on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm. on Sat, 11:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: SOCA Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

64zero3

64zero3 is a contemporary art gallery established by artists Helen Calder and Julia Morison to provide an additional South Island platform for the best of contemporary New Zealand art. Gallery artists include: -- Andre Hemer -- Helen Calder -- Jacquelyn Greenbank -- James Cousins -- John Hurrell -- Judy Millar -- Julia Morison -- Liyen Chong -- Miranda Parkes -- Paul Johns -- Peter Madden -- Reuben Paterson -- Simon Morris -- Wayne Youle Exhibitions change every four weeks.

Dates: on Sat, 11:00am - 3:00pm. on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 11:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: 64zero3 Gallery
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

The Sculpture Park - Waitakaruru Arboretum

The Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru Arboretum is a beautiful and unique woodland garden of 42 acres (17.5ha) developed in the site of a derelict hard rock quarry. The arboretum has been an ongoing project since it was purchased in 1991. It has been open to the public since 2003 as a recreational attraction for all ages. An early initiative was to organise sculpture exhibitions to showcase the works of NZ sculptors in large, beautiful settings in the property. The current exhibition is called E:Scape Sculpture in the Landscape and it runs until 31 May. It is a collection of more than 60 pieces, most of which are for sale. The Winter Collection, featuring various NZ artists is not a curated show, and will be less formal in structure. We expect no fewer than 50 works on display in this show. The Winter Collection will be on display from June 1st - October 17th 2009. The Sculpture Park is open every day of the year from 10.00 am til dusk. The week end cafe will continue to operate until the last weekend in May, and it will re-open with a new menu in early September again.

Dates: every day, 10:00am.
Venue: Waitakaruru Arboretum and Sculpture Park
Region: Waikato
Cost: $10, Under 12 years free

House of Taonga: Salon

The House of Taonga is open by appointment and is a place where art ideas are explored and where art is examined and new ideas can emerge in an environment distinct from shop or gallery. The Salon is flexible for artists wanting to try new things and there are multiple outcomes for art investigation, not just the conventional realisation of an exhibition. Art viewers too can actively engage in discussion about the artwork and artists ideas. Please book in advance to arrange an appointment. Email your inquiries to info@houseoftaonga.com or call 021722691.

Dates: every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: St Kevin's Arcade
Region: Auckland
Cost: tbc

Quadrant Gallery

The gallery's focus is New Zealand contemporary jewellery and 3D arts, including glass, ceramics and sculpture. The gallery features works by: -- Trevor Byron -- Hanne Eriksen -- Chris Idour -- Ingrid Kaddatz -- David Mcleod -- Owen Mapp -- Vaune Mason -- Ray Wade -- Kathryn Yeats -- Katie Brown -- Karen Ellet -- Vicki Rodgers -- Robert Rapson -- Janet Green -- Blair Smith -- Simon Lawry -- Karen Burnett -- John Lawrence

Dates: on Sat, 10:00am - 2:00pm. on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 12:00pm - 5:30pm.
Venue: Quadrant Gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Outside-In Gallery

The Outside-In Gallery promotes New Zealand Outsider Art. Not only is it a physical gallery it also loans out artworks to government and private sector offices with the option to buy. The gallery is a major initiative by Arts Access Aotearoa (AAA) and the artists that AAA works with belong to marginalised groups such as those with disabilities or mental health issues. Arts Access Aotearoa (AAA) is committed to providing momentum to the careers of outsider artists from across the country by promoting the artists and their work to a growing audience. There is already considerable interest internationally in outsider art and Outside-In Gallery is committed to growing recognition for such work in New Zealand.

Dates: every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Outside-In Gallery
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

The Lane Gallery

The Lane Gallery specializes in contemporary New Zealand artwork; paintings, hand finished artist's prints, and sculpture. Open throughout the Christmas and New Year period* and open Sundays until Christmas, The Lane Gallery will be exhibiting a wide variety of work by emerging and established New Zealand artists, including Rebecca Wallis, Matt Palmer, Liam Davidson, Thomas Elliott, Daniel Blanshard, Phil Newbury, Philippa Bentley and Michele Bryant and many more. The Lane Gallery's collection includes one of Auckland's largest collections of limited edition prints by some of New Zealand's most established printmakers, including Rodney Fumpston, Alexis Neal, Stanley Palmer, Sheyne Tuffery, Tracey Williams and others.

Dates: on Sat, 10:00am - 4:00pm. on Wed, 10:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: The Lane Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Murray Hewitt - Gospel

Enjoy is screening four new moving-image works by Wellington-based artist Murray Hewitt. These formally composed videos are subtle and open-ended yet politically complex. The artist says that although his works speak to particular political themes he recognises that viewers will come to his work with different kinds of understanding. He is interested in opening the meaning of his works to the process of audience interpretation. Hewitt has been influenced by events in New Zealand history such as the anti Springbok Tour protests and the Seabed and Foreshore legislation passed in 2004. “My research looks at issues facing a video artist in NZ dealing with political issues… I found in my practice I kept returning to political subjects.” One of the works presented; ‘Weeping Waters’, was filmed at Castlepoint on the Wairarapa coast. In this work, a surf beach with massive sand dunes is the picturesque location for an endurance performance, acted out by the artist. A solitary man is depicted, working methodically against gravity and fatigue, kicking a football while wearing a 1970’s motorcycle helmet bearing the Raukura symbol. This image features albatross feathers and is a symbol of commitment to resolve conflict through peaceful means. The Raukura is an important emblem of the prophets Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kakahi of Parihaka. ‘Weeping Waters’ was created in 2007, the centenary of Te Whiti’s death. For the opening night only, Hewitt’s ‘Mega Untitled’ video will screen accompanied by a special performance. Jonathan Berkahn is playing a loose version of John Newton's hymn ‘Amazing Grace’ on an electronic organ providing an eerie soundscape for the comings and goings of shoppers at all 21 Mitre 10 Mega warehouses throughout the country. We hope you can join us on Wednesday night to enjoy the performance, and to see Hewitt's latest video offerings. Murray Hewitt was born in Hastings, New Zealand in 1969. He completed his MFA earlier this year at Massey University Wellington.

Dates: every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Enjoy Public Art Gallery
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Masterworks Gallery

Masterworks Gallery specialises in the exhibition and sale of New Zealand and Australian contemporary applied art with a strong focus on glass, ceramics and jewellery. The directors, Ann Porter and Sara Sadd, have nearly 30 years of experience in this area. We represent a select group of artists, many of whom exhibit and teach internationally. Our major emphasis is on promoting the richness and diversity of the decorative arts, particularly those that reflect the regional influences of the Pacific Basin. The gallery presents fifteen exhibitions a year, with a mix of solo and curated group shows. We have a strong international client base and offer advice on valuation and collection.

Dates: on Sat, 10:00am - 5:00pm. on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:30pm.
Venue: Masterworks Gallery - Ponsonby
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Carole K Gallery

The gallery showcases the work of designer jeweller Carole K. Carole designs and produces necklaces and earrings made of semi-precious stones, pearls, sea bamboo, crystals, sterling silver and vermeil gold. Her fabulous feeling for colours combined with her daring designs make every product a thing of beauty and a joy for the eyes. Carole K's Gallery is at the same time her atelier and showroom. Many women find their way to the Gallery and spend some hours trying on and selecting a necklace and or earrings. The Carole K Gallery is open for the public 7 days a week. It is advisable to phone for an appointment first 03 314 4407. A map with travel directions can be supplied. The Gallery is situated in North Canterbury, between Christchurch (1 hour) and Hanmer Springs (3/4 hour). Carole K is member of JWNZ - the Jewellers and Watchmakers of New Zealand Inc. Carole K has been exhibited twice at "Art in a Garden" at Flaxmere Gardens and will have her second exhibition at The Arts Centre Christchurch from 23 - 27 June 2008.

Dates: every day, 9:00am - 11:00pm.
Venue: Carole K Gallery
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Andrew Cameron: Sheep-ish

Sheep-ish is a suite of exquisite drawings and sculpture by Andrew Cameron. Of his exhibition Cameron states: "I develop ideas by drawing the ordinary, my immediate surroundings, using simple materials, This forces me to see. These works recognise the cyclic nature of common events." Andrew holds a Diploma of Fine Arts (Hons) from Otago Polytechnic and teaches art at Waihi School for Boys.

Dates: on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 4:00pm. on Sat, Sun, 12:00pm - 4:00pm.
Venue: Aigantighe Art Museum
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Trust Aoraki Art Awards

The 56th Souuth Canterbury Arts Society Annual Exhibition featuring guest artists Llew Summers and Russell Campbell.

Dates: on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 4:00pm. on Sat, Sun, 12:00pm - 4:00pm.
Venue: Aigantighe Art Museum
Region: Canterbury
Cost: Free

Whitespace Gallery

Whitespace is a contemporary art gallery situated in a converted industrial warehouse in Crummer Road, Ponsonby. See Whitespace for listings

Dates: on Sat, 11:00am - 4:00pm. on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 11:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: Whitespace
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

John Edgar - Array'(2008)

Acclaimed sculptor John Edgar has been exhibiting since 1979 including three NZ public touring exhibitions "Calculus" 2002-2004, "Lie Of The Land" 1998-1999, and "Making Amends" 1993-1995. In 2004, Edgar installed a major commission at the Auckland Domain titled 'Transformer'. Edgar sculpts natural stone into abstract compositions with a strong reference to visual texture, “the oneness of duality” (1), the passing of time and the process of dissecting and transforming natural formations into artefacts, so that they become part of the human environment. In his artist statement, Edgar explains that his latest exhibition 'Array' is based upon the perception of one of the fundamental sculptural forms - the cube. These works the viewer can see eight cubes within the cube, separated as they are by the powerful arms of the crosses. 1. John Edgar, Artist Statement, November 2001. The exhibition preview is on Friday 21 November from 5.30pm at Milford Galleries Dunedin, 18 Dowling St, Dunedin (03) 477 7727.

Dates: every day, 8:30am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Milford Galleries Dunedin
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

Kahukura Gallery

Kahukura Gallery is Gisbornes newest contemporary Art Gallery and Project space. Kahukura Gallery specialise in contemporary and traditional Indigenous art from Aotearoa NZ, the Pacific Nations as well as Asia Pacific. The gallery celebrates diversity which is reflected in the Artworks that they exhibit. Hours: 10am - 5pm Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm Saturday and Sunday For more information Phone: 06 868 0970; or visit the website.

Dates: on Sat, Sun, 10:00am - 3:00pm. on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Kahukura Gallery
Region: Gisborne
Cost: Free

Christmas Party

The Anna Miles Gallery presents Christmas Party, a group Show to see out the year, on display from November 26th – December 20th 2008. The exhibition will feature works by Kate Small, Darren Glass, Janet Green, Kim Meek, Richard Stratton, Sarah Hillary, Sriwhana Spong, Sandra Bushby, Octavia Cook, and Edith Amituanai.

Dates: every day, 11:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: Anna Miles Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

New Works by James Charlton: dForm

The Moving Image Centre presents an exhibition of new works by James Charlton, on display from November 22nd - December 20th 2008. A radical departure from traditional sculptural practice, dForm incorporates a mix of rapid prototyping, video, live data capturing through web cams and the interactive generation of sound. dForm explores the construction and perception of time-based events by examining the ability of static objects to encapsulate temporal information. It aims to question our relationship with physical objects by proposing new modalities for the representation of time-based events. dForm marks Charlton’s transition from sculptural practice to media artist in an interactive and deeply absorbing exhibition in which the movement and behaviour of viewers literally sculpt the work.

Dates: every day, 10:00am - 6:00am. every day, 10:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: Moving Image Center
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Objectspace

Objectspace, located in Auckland New Zealand, is a dedicated and award winning centre for innovative craft and design. Through exhibitions, publications and activities, focused on designed and handmade objects including ceramics, design, embroidery, furniture, jewellery, metal work, textiles, Objectspace aims to put objects into play. Objectspace connects innovative objects and makers with audiences in order to expand the cultural, economic and social options for objectmaking. Situated at 8 Ponsonby Road, Objectspace is open to the public 10 am - 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday.

Dates: on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Objectspace
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Objectspace Limited Editions

Objectspace Limited Editions is an opportunity for serious collectors of contemporary New Zealand craft and design to acquire exclusive works by leading New Zealand makers. Each year Objectspace will commission new designs from two innovative New Zealand designer/makers which will be produced in a limited edition for Objectspace. Objectspace Limited Editions was launched in November 2006 featuring works by outstanding makers, Ann Robinson and Joe Sheehan. Objectspace has more recently commissioned new works by Vita Cochrane and Peter Lorimer which were launched in October 2007.

Dates: on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Objectspace
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Aaron Kereopa: New Works

Toi o Tahuna fine art gallery will be holding an exhibition of new work by Aaron Kereopa. Aaron’s new work is a continuation of his previous concerns with his surrounding environment and the ocean of Aotearoa. His work is inspired by the alien-like marine beings of the deep blue sea.Tropical fish, stingrays, UFO Fish and giant whitebaits crowd together in a school of extraterrestrial colour and design. Aaron Kereopa’s work stands out for its intricate Polynesian designs and bold texturing of colour. Using Surfboard foam blanks as his medium and substituting knife and scalpel in the place of chisel and hammer, paint in the place of varnish, Aaron’s work fuses ideas of traditional Whakairo (the art of carving) with a contemporary art practice. This fusion allows him the freedom to take Whakairo in a new direction and create his own style of carving. Initially hesitant to explore this form of carving (due to the respect with which Māori treat Whakairo and the rules that have come to be associated with the art form) Aaron has grown confident over time about his work and his ability to take it forward. ‘A good thing about our people’ he says, ‘in the past they learnt how to adapt and move with the times. I’m just doing the same thing’. Aaron’s interest in carving and design dates back to his high school days at Wesley College, a boarding school in Auckland that emphasised the importance of culture to its students, many of whom hailed from Pacific backgrounds. Here he developed interests in ta moko (tattoo), kapa haka (performance) and te reo (language), and became a member of a waka taua (war canoe) group, travelling to Canada and Hawaii as a representative of his school, the Māori Queen and Tainui, his tribe. In 1985, the Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior was bombed in Auckland harbour, sparking a new wave of anti-nuclear protest across New Zealand. Aaron was living with on his family land in Raglan at the time when he saw a foam blank carved with an anti- nuclear protest message by fellow surfer Kevin Barker. Like ta moko and whakairo, Aaron’s work utilises a visual language that acts as a code, drawing on themes both universal and personal such as mythology, geography, his tupuna (ancestors), whakapapa (genealogy), and navigation. His works has included elements of popular culture, surf culture, comics and they also show a affinity with a larger pan-pacific culture. Aaron is especially inspired by the underlying similaritlies between Maori and Hawaiian cultures. Although those familiar with Māori design can read some of the imagery, much of the work has personal references, such as to Manu Bay, the surf beach over which Aaron’s studio looks, and Karioi, the neighbouring mountain, which has a specific relationship with local Māori. Living in this area of Raglan has allowed Aaron to reinforce his Tainui roots and develop different interpretations of traditional ideas and to put his own stance on traditional designs and meanings. Aaron also often integrates patterns he sees in his mother’s fibre work as a weaver of kete (bags), whariki (mats) and potae hats, each with the underlying message of the significance of culture. The exhibition will run from 4 July until 29 July 2009 with a preview on the evening on Friday 3 July 2009, 5.30pm - 7.30pm.

Dates: every day, 10:00am - 6:00pm.
Venue: Toi o Tahuna Fine Art Gallery
Region: Otago
Cost: Free

The Ralph Hotere Gallery

The Ralph Hotere Gallery at the Eastern Southland Gallery contains a significant number of works by arguably New Zealand's most prominent contemporary artist, Ralph Hotere. This series of works was created in collaboration with poet Hone Tuwhare, and comprises one of the largest and most important collections of work by both Hotere and Tuwhare. The gallery offers a programme of rotational exhibitions. Nick-named the 'Goreggenheim' by Saatchi & Saatchi boss Kevin Roberts, the Eastern Southland Gallery features exhibitions of national and international note: The John Money Collection and The Ralph Hotere Gallery. Housed in the attractive 1909 vintage converted Carnegie library building in central Gore, the Eastern Southland Gallery is a must for visitors to the region.

Dates: on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 10:00am - 4:30pm. on Sat, Sun, 1:00pm - 4:00pm.
Venue: Eastern Southland Art Gallery
Region: Southland
Cost: Free

Thermostat Gallery

Thermostat Art Gallery is an arts venue in Palmerston North, which aims to support fresh, challenging and contemporary artworks in any medium. We are a dedicated gallery space with exhibitions changing on a regular basis. All works are for sale and visitor entry is free Thermostat opened in July, 2001 and has exhibited the work of several hundred artists since. We encourage new ideas and are supportive and committed to the artists we represent. Priority is given to artists living/working in the area, otherwise generally by invitation only.

Dates: on Mon, Tue, 9:00am - 11:00pm. on Sat, 11:00am - 2:00pm. on Wed, Thu, Fri, 11:00am - 4:00pm.
Venue: Thermostat Gallery
Region: Manawatu Whanganui
Cost: Free

Summer Group Show

The Antoinette Godkin Gallery present a group exhibition showing works by: Andre Hemer, Matthew Dowman, Carol Fletcher, Andy Tolhurst, Miranda Parkes, Esther Leigh, Sue Novell, Helen Calder and Fames R Ford.

Dates: every day, 11:00am - 5:00pm.
Venue: Antoinette Godkin Gallery
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Len Lye: Water Whirler

This incredible piece of kinetic sculpture by internationally-renowned artist Len Lye was commissioned to celebrate the move into the 21st century. Built after his death, the water feature clearly demonstrates Lye's love of "art in motion". The 12-minute show allows you to gaze upon the beauty of water moving, as if choreographed, in the wind. The "windicator" light on the specially built pier at the north end of Frank Kitts Park comes on if it is too windy for performances to proceed. Its performance schedule is: 10am, 11am, 12 noon, 1pm, 3pm and 6pm, 8pm, 9pm and 10pm. Image courtesy of Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Frank Kitts Park
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Waitemata Plaza

A large open, paved area scattered with seating and public convenience. Features "Cytoplasm" kinetic artwork by Phil Price. It is a great place to walk and see the luxury yachts. Close to bars and restaurants.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Waitemata Plaza
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Michael Parekowhai: Atarangi II

This outdoor sculpture by New Zealand artist Michael Parekowhai consists of a range of multi-coloured 12 metre high columns. The work connects with the method used to teach te reo Maori, “Atarangi”. The work evokes the form and colour codes of Cuisenaire Rods used to teach numbers and now, also languages, to young children.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Te Tuhi - Centre for the Arts
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Master of the Burin: the Book Illustrations of John Buckland Wright

A retrospective collection of one of the greatest book illustrators of the 1930's and 1940's. John Buckland Wright is one of New Zealand's most distinguished expatriate artists, internationally renowned for his work in the graphic media. John Buckland Wright (1897-1954) was an illustrator and engraver from Dunedin, New Zealand. After studying architecture, he turned to engraving, and became a master in the techniques of wood and copper engraving, intaglio and etching processes, with great international success. The work of Buckland Wright is held in collections throughout the world including the Museum Meermanno, The Hague, Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris and the London institutions Victoria and Albert Museum and the Tate Gallery. A complete collection of his engravings is in the British Museum.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Online
Region: Online Venue
Cost: Free

Henry Moore: Bronze Form

Bronze form is a sculpture by Henry Moore located on the Salamanca Lawn at the Wellington Botanic Gardens. Presented to the city by Fletcher Challenge Bronze Form was placed in Midland Park in the centre of the city in 1988, and then moved to its present site in 1995. "Henry Moore (1898 - 1986) was one of the outstanding sculptors of the 20th century. His work has had a strong influence on contemporary figural sculpture. An important and lasting influence on Moore's work was the world of nature. 'The human figure', he wrote, 'is what interests me most deeply, but I have found principles of form and rhythm from the study of natural objects, such as pebbles, rocks, bones, trees, plants.' There were six cast, the one in Wellington is No 4. Image courtesy of Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Wellington Botanic Garden
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Bill Culbert - SkyBlues

SkyBlues is a 11 metre tall Stainless steel and neon sculpture by Bill Culbert located on Jervois Quay in Wellington. Bill Culbert describes this work as: “Fifteen vertical blue neon lines rising from steel poles five meters high. The neon some 2-3 meters high are in three dimensional space and each neon is as a corkscrew. The density of the fifteen lines will give a form in depth to the work; with visual overlaps as the viewer moves - SkyBlues is light energy, the verticals are drawn lines that move, shimmer, swirl blue in the cityscape.” Presented to the city in 2006. The principal funder was TOWER Group, with major donations from Creative New Zealand and the Wellington City Council. Bill Culbert is renowned for his work in neon and other light forms. Image courtesy of Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: SkyBlues
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Louise Purvis: Seismic

Seismic is an marble sculpture by renowned Auckland sculptor Louise Purvis located at the western (Lambton Quay) end of Bunny St, in Victoria University of Wellington's Pipitea campus area. Four large Italian Carrara marble discs, each 1.8 meters in diameter are strewn on the paving or on the raised grass areas as though thrown there by an earthquake. Each has carved patterns representing the different aspects of seismic activity. "Seismic is a direct response to the site. Each disc is an interpretation of events occurring during an earthquake. The discs are strewn about the site to evoke a sense of randomness. Seismic is intended to be a sculpture you pass through and perhaps contemplate the precarious nature of our environment along the way." Louise Purvis Seismic was installed December 20th 2006. Image courtesy of Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Bunny Street
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Virginia King - Sliver

The Newmarket Arts Trust proud to announce the installation of Sliver, a new sculpture by New Zealand artist Virginia King in Broadway, Newmarket. The stainless steel circular sculpture may be viewed as an archetypal symbol of time. The pivoting disc is perforated with a series of radiating elliptical spheres. The work references the hub of energy, the wheel of commerce that exemplifies Newmarket. The unveiling ceremony will be on Thursday 4th December 2008. King’s sculpture celebrates life in the South Pacific and the complexities of natural forms. By abstracting and magnifying these forms, she draws attention to their fragility and the vulnerability of the earth’s eco- systems. Her works are informed by mythology, history, science and literature. Commissioned by the Newmarket Arts Trust, with financial support from Newmarket Business Association, ASB Trusts and Tramco Group.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Sliver
Region: Auckland
Cost: Free

Andrew Drummond - Tower of Light

Tower of Light is a 9 metre high neon and steel sculpture by New Zealand Andrew Drummond located on Cobham Drive in Wellington. "Tower of Light is a machine that uses the wind speed and converts that into light using very simple technology. The rotor at the top of the tower spins in accordance to the wind speed. This rotational speed is read via a controller, which then switches on neon rings in accordance to the speed of the rotor, which is determined by the wind speed. The lighter the wind speed the fewer number of rings are lit and as the wind speed increases the more neon rings are lit. I have used colour as a measuring element and so the sequence goes from green at the bottom through the spectrum to red at the top. As a result, the viewer is able to read wind speed through colour, a method for them to re-sense their environment. Tower of Light then becomes a work that has a strong social presence. It not only has a visual role, but has a social role and as a result will integrate its place into the local environment." Andrew Drummond - January 2005 Tower of Light is the second major work by Andrew Drummond to be installed in Wellington. He is known for sculptures that involve technology and explore the relationship humans have with technology. He has shown a long commitment to exploring the qualities of a site and developing works that relate to their physical and other contexts. Tower of Light was presented to the city in 2005, sponsored by Meridian Energy, and assisted by the Wellington City Council. Image courtesy of Wellington City Council

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Tower of Light
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Cathryn Monro: Per Capita

Per Capita is a ten ton steel sculpture by Wellington artist Cathryn Monro sculpture located on the corner of Cable St and Tory St, outside the Museum Hotel in Wellington. The work consists of four gigantic portraits, up to four meters high. Two pieces are shaped as portraits in profile, and two have the profiles cut out from a square – i.e. two are in positive form and two in negative space - evoking, in the artist's words, “a visual conversation about the complexity of New Zealand's cultural identity.” The profiles are based on actual portraits of people who are connected through genealogy, “But” says artist Cathryn Monro, “the specific history of these people is not the point of the work. The portraits signify diversity in family histories throughout New Zealand and foremost is the notion that personal history is paramount in the formation of a national one.” “Per Capita means ‘for each head of population’. The composition of the work is very simple; it’s a 4 piece puzzle. Yet the pieces don’t fit together. So it’s not simple anymore. An obvious sense of fitting and belonging is immediately confounded. Per Capita seeks to open up the question of what it means to be a New Zealander and to publicize the importance of that conversation”. - Cathryn Monro Image courtesy of Wellington City Council

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Per Capita
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Phil Price: Zephyrometer

Zephyrometer is a large fibreglass and steel kinetic sculpture by Phil Price located at the corner of Cobham Drive and Evans Bay Parade in Wellington. The sculpture is the second kinetic work by Phil Price to be installed in Wellington. The dynamic mast-like structure graphically marks out the strength and direction of the prevailing wind with an elegant swaying motion. The shape, construction and movements of the sculpture are beautifully reflective of the site adjacent to the Evan’s Bay Marina. "It is a giant-sized yet beautiful machine. Its gentle lurching will in its own way gauge the wind of Wellington. It is a type of free-form gauge with a considerable reliance on precision engineering, which I am enjoying because, as well as the work being a scientific concept, it is also a science to design and build. It is like any well-designed object where the beauty is derived through its need to function." - Phil Price Zephyrometer was presented to the city in 2003, sponsored by Meridian Energy, and assisted by the Wellington City Council. Image courtesy of Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Zephyrometer
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Anton Parsons: Invisible City

Invisible City is a stainless steel sculpture by Anton Parsons located on the corner of Corner of Lambton Quay and Grey Street in the Wellington CBD. The steel of this sculpture seems to glow with an inner light. The magnified Braille text suggests a message, but the artist chooses to deny us access, raising issues of communication in the contemporary world, and the difficult interface between the disabled and the rest of the community. "Invisible City is an appropriate public work because it functions on several levels: Aesthetics – even without understanding that the dots on the two boxes are braille text, Invisible City is an aesthetically pleasing object – it doesn’t have to be read to be appreciated. Tactile – it is made to be touched. Surface – Invisible City is polished stainless steel, and reflects its surroundings. When looking at it you see a reflection of Wellington." - Anton Parsons Invisible City Presented to the city in 2003 with assistance from the Jack and Emma Griffin Charitable Trust and the Wellington City Council. Image courtesy of Wellington City Council

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Invisible City
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Jeff Thomson: Shells

Shells is a 3 metre x 3 metre concrete sculpture by Jeff Thomson located on the corner of Waring Taylor Street and Lambton Quay in the Wellington CBD. "I collect a lot of shells from all over New Zealand. I just looked into a little bit of the history of that area and I had been dabbling a little bit and playing around with concrete. It's something suggesting what was once there." - Jeff Thomson Image courtesy of Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Shells
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Robert Jahnke: Spinning Top

Spinning Top is a large stainless steel sculpture by Robert Jahnke located on Woodward Street in Wellington’s CBD. Robert Jahnke had been working on a series of Maori spinning tops or potaka and decided to modify the design to include a pictorial history of Wellington. "I wanted to go for something that was visually interesting, so I created a European version of the top and included Maori references through heiroglyphics. Spinning Top traces the history of Whanganui-a-Tara, the Maori name for Wellington. The major mythical story is that of the two taniwha in the harbour. The taniwha formed the harbour and the surrounding hills with their movements”. - Robert Jahnke Spinning top was commissioned with funding from the Jack and Emma Griffin Charitable Trust and assistance from the Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Spinning Top
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Phil Price: Protoplasm

Protoplasm is a plastic and steel sculpture by Phil Price located at the corner of Corner Hunter Street and Lambton Quay in Wellington's CBD. "I am looking at the study of matter, Protoplasm is the name given to the inside active part of any living cell. The pebbles and movement simulate the random active cells. "In this final Protoplasm, every structural member, being shafts and beams, is calculated to withstand the force that can be applied to the entire surface area. The bearings are over-engineered to a huge degree, to probably about ten times what is needed." - Phil Price Image courtesy of Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Protoplasm
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Denis O'Connor: Rudderstone

Rudderstone is a large marble sculpture by New Zealand artist Denis O'Connor: located on Manuka Way, at the Wellington Botanic Gardens. "The millions of exploding fossilised leaves vividly trapped in the black marble are a visual experience not unlike the view of the night sky. "This marble confirms the metaphor of passage to another realm and its high polish reflects the image of those who stand in front of it. The vivid blue and white stripes of the reverse side are abstracted panoramic streams of sea and sky so familiar to the mind's eye of Pacific coast dwellers and maritime voyagers. "The turquoise blue Azul marble from Brazil and the crisp laundered white of the Carrara marble from Italy glow luminously in this position where direct sunlight is filtered." Denis O'Connor Rudderstone was presented to the city in 1997. Image courtesy of Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Wellington Botanic Garden
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Kon Dimopoulos: Pacific Grass

Pacific Grass is a 13 metre high composite rod sculpture by Kon Dimopoulos located on the Traffic island at Cobham Dr and Calabar Rd in Mirimar. "Pacific Grass is a celebration of movement. It is like a ballet in which 1550 different characters have their own part choreographed and moved by the wind. "Like music in dance, wind is the critical element in this production, shaping and forming with its influence." - Kon Dimopoulos Presented to the city in 2001, sponsored by Meridian Energy, and assisted by the Wellington City Council. Image courtesy of Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Pacific Grass Sculpture
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Regan Gentry: Subject to Change

Subject to Change has been specifically designed for its location in the Te Aro area, making reference to the changes in the urban landscape of that part of Wellington. It comprises a replica of two walls of a heritage-style building, yet is clearly a large scale work of art. In the artist's words, “It looks like a slice of a building left behind by the developers...tenuously existing on the edge of the new motorway. It mimics components and colour schemes of the buildings that are or were around it, to integrate it within the historical and contemporary context of the area.” The sculpture has had a difficult and long period of development, with changes of location and design and times where it’s very future seemed uncertain and even doomed. What has eventuated is the best possible outcome with the sculpture having reached a finely researched and elegant resolution on a site rich in historical relevance, close to the very building on which it was modelled and with perfect scale and visibility for the passing pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Image courtesy of Amy Schulz Photography.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Subject to Change
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Chris Booth: Celebration of Culture in Kerikeri

The new Kerikeri water sculpture by local and international artist Chris Booth will be opened with a celebration of culture on Sunday June 7th, starting at 2pm. The large work combining stone and bronze has been installed in the Kerikeri Domain Park John Gow of Connells Bay Center for Sculpture on Waiheke Island said “Chris Booth’s Kerikeri Water Sculpture is arguably one of the most significant public sculptures ever installed in New Zealand. It is a monumental work combining the iconic sculptural materials of stone and bronze. Like Len Lye’s Wind Wand in New Plymouth, Chris Booths Kerikeri Water Sculpture will become an iconic feature of the Kerikeri landscape and will act as a strong draw card for tourism.” Ngati Rehia will conduct customary protocol for the ceremony. As a celebration of culture the event will feature the Ngati Rehia Culture Group. Also, especially flown in from overseas for the occasion, will be rising New Zealand soprano star, Ramonda Taleni. Ms Taleni will perform two waiata, one of which is being specially written for the occasion by celebrated New Zealand composer Gillian Whitehead. This new waiata is inspired by the Chris Booth sculpture and Kerikeri. Of this event Mr Booth said, “We are so fortunate in our long history of interwoven cultures here in Kerikeri, we can reinforce this by celebrating current highlights and honouring one of our cultural elders, John Dalton, on the 7th of June”. The celebration is open for all to enjoy. All are welcome. Photo: Rob Ueberfeldt

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Kerikeri Domain
Region: Northland
Cost: Free

Te Maori - 25 Years

On September 10 1984 an exceptional exhibition of taonga opened to critical acclaim at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The exhibition was a pinnacle of centuries of cultural creativity and decades of determined political change. We embrace this opportunity to mark the 25th anniversary of this important event and encourage you to join with us in adding your memories and views about Te Maori to our collaborative online project.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Online
Region: Online Venue
Cost: Free

The Four Plinths Temporary Sculpture Project

The Wellington Sculpture Trust's major continuing project is a series of temporary sculptures on the four large plinths located between the national museum Te Papa and the Circa Theatre. These mark the boundary between the Te Papa forecourt and Wellington Waterfront, a superb site for contemporary sculpture. Each of the plinths, large concrete cubes covered in bluestone, are 2m square. The project operates to select and install a new work on or around the four plinths every two years, with an opening as a part of the International Festival of the Arts which takes place in Wellington over three weeks in February and March in even number years (2010, 2012 etc). The first of the Four Plinths sculptures is Green Islands by Regan Gentry. It was installed before the 2008 International Festival of the Arts and will remain in place until early 2010. It has been extremely popular with many Wellingtonians who are keen that a site can be found for the pieces to remain in public view in Wellington. The work is the result of Gentry's first visit to the site when he was struck by the absence of natural vegetation. With each plinth providing an island for “greenery” Gentry has ironically introduced plants to the area, creating replica trees and other flora commonly found around Wellington out of the ever-popular number 8 fencing wire. Image courtesy of Wellington City Council.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Te Papa
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Art Explorer Wellington Sculpture Trails

Calling all art explorers! Art Explorer sculpture trail booklets have been designed especially for children and families to use while enjoying Wellington’s public art in the city centre. Each Art Explorer booklet is packed with creative activities to challenge young artists and sightseers alike. Use the map and paper binoculars to take a closer look at some familiar and hidden artworks – take a pencil to complete the fun activities as you go. Art Explorer: Civic Square is designed for younger art explorers, aged approximately 5 to 8 years old. Older art explorers between 9 and 12 years old can pick up an Art Explorer: Waterfront to use along Queens and Taranaki Wharves. Pick up the Art Explorer sculpture trail packs from City Gallery Wellington, Wellington City Council offices on Wakefield Street, i-Site Visitor Centre at Civic Square, Central Library on Victoria Street or the Museum of Wellington, City and Sea. The trail packs can also be downloaded from www.citygallery.org.nz.

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Various - Wellington
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free

Gabrielle McKone: Three Stories Up

'Three Stories Up' by local photographer Gabrielle McKone will feature as the next light boxes exhibition at Courtenay Place Park. Curated by James Gilberd of Photospace. The light box project - in Courtenay Place Park - is an intense, highly public exhibition space featuring eight 3-metre-high steel and glass LED boxes. Celebrate the exhibition opening Monday 21 December, 5.30pm at The Jimmy Cafe and Bar, St James, Courtenay Place, Wellington. Proudly funded from Wellington City Council's Public Art Fund

Dates: every day, 12:00am.
Venue: Courtenay Place
Region: Wellington
Cost: Free