South Canterbury Artists Shine at the Aigantighe Art Gallery
For the
79th time, South Canterbury’s own artists have taken center stage at the
Aigantighe Art Gallery. The latest edition of the
Alpine Energy Art Awards and Annual Exhibition officially opened on
Friday night.
Organized by the
South Canterbury Art Society, this event provides subscribing members of a registered New Zealand art society with the opportunity to exhibit, sell, and have their latest works judged in a true gallery setting.
Featured Artists
Guest artists
Polly Rowe,
Debbie Templeton Page, and
Diana Peneamene also contributed pieces to the exhibition, enriching the showcase of local talent.
This year, the judging was conducted by
Gala Kirke, head of the visual arts department at Craighead Diocesan School.
A Diverse Showcase
South Canterbury Art Society president
Lesley Brown expressed her excitement about the wide variety of works on display this year.
“We’ve had lots of oil paintings, which is great. There’s a lot of delicate drawings and pastel work of animals. People love doing those, so they are in there. I’m pretty pleased with it actually, in terms of what’s come in,” said Brown.
A total of
118 pieces were selected for display, ranging from oil and watercolor paintings to
3D and mixed media artworks.
“I’ve been president for a few months, and I feel like I’m surrounded by the people, even though it’s artwork. It’s like, ‘there’s Diana,’ but it’s actually the works of Diana. I think that connection between the artists, the artwork, and the people viewing is something quite special about the show,” Brown added.
The Value of Art
Brown emphasized the importance of the annual exhibition, noting its significant regional connection.
“This is the big show that people get a chance to exhibit in, because not all artists across New Zealand get a chance to exhibit in a major gallery.”
She highlighted the often-overlooked benefits of art.
“Art gives us so much, including mental wellbeing. Just by looking at art, it can help you rest your mind and be calm. The value of art is sometimes not seen, but it has a huge impact on us. You don’t realize that until it’s gone.”
Brown encourages everyone to visit the exhibition:
“If you haven’t been to a gallery before, this is the place to come.”
Final Year of Sponsorship
It’s worth noting that this will be the last year
Alpine Energy will sponsor the event.
“They’ve been hugely supportive in the past, and we appreciate all the support they’ve given the exhibition over the years,” said Brown.
Exhibition Details
The exhibition runs until
October 27, and all works will be for sale until then. Don’t miss the chance to experience the vibrant artistry of South Canterbury!
