Current Exhibition

Chambers Art Gallery

Hamish Allan Lessons from Suburbia, Lessons from the Sea. – Sarah Garland  ‘Afternoon at Awhi’s’ – Peter Cleverley Flowers for Peace

Hamish Allan Sarah Garland Peter Cleverley

Showing 16th August 2023 - 2nd September 2023

Exhibition Information

Hamish Allan Lessons from Suburbia, Lessons from the Sea. – Sarah Garland  ‘Afternoon at Awhi’s’ – Peter Cleverley Flowers for Peace - Hamish Allan Sarah Garland Peter Cleverley

Sarah Garland

 ‘Afternoon at Awhi’s’
Guided by a profound appreciation for storytelling and a fascination with the slice-of-life moments that reflect the diverse tapestry of New Zealand, “Afternoon at Awhï’s” is a series of four portraits capturing the essence of New Zealand Māori subjects from the 1970s and 80s.
In a heartfelt homage to New Zealand’s cultural heritage, I juxtapose contemporary portraits with historical Māori portraiture. Departing from traditional depictions, my works offer candid, unguarded glimpses into their lives, humanising the subjects and forging personal connections with viewers.
While my identity as a New Zealand European (Pākehā) artist is a distinctive lens through which I perceive the world, I am aware of the deep responsibility that comes with painting Māori subjects. It is a privilege to be invited into their stories, and I approach this opportunity with immense sensitivity and respect.
Through this exhibition, I aim to foster cross-cultural understanding and celebrate the diverse perspectives I bring as an artist. I want my paintings to serve as a testament to the enduring connection between people, heritage, and the land that binds us all. It is my hope that viewers will not only be captivated by the colours and textures but also moved to contemplate the vibrant stories that lie within, cherishing the beauty and complexity of the rich heritage that defines New Zealand.

Peter Cleverly – 

Flowers for Peace

THIS SUITE OF PAINTINGS HAVE BEEN COMPOSED FROM ITEMS I SEE DAILY IN THE GARDEN, IN THE HOUSE AND IN THE NIGHT SKY. I WANT THEM TO REFERENCE THE WONDER OF NATURE,  THE GIFT OF FLOWERS AND ALL THAT THAT SYMBOLISES. I’VE ALWAYS ADMIRED THE STILL LIFE PAINTINGS OF MARGARET OLROG STODDART AND THE EXQUISITE BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATIONS  OF NANCY ADAMS, MINE LEAN MORE TOWARDS ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISM, I WANT THE PAINT APPLICATION TO FORM THEN COLLAPSE, A METAPHOR FOR THE AMAZING CYCLES OF NATURE.PETER CLEVERLEY.

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