Biggest art trail ever say organisers

 

Nineteen venues plus a members exhibition in the Mangawhai gallery will see this years Easter Art Trail with the highest number of participating artists in any Trail so far. Visitors will enjoy a diverse range of styles, and they also get the chance to peek into artist’s studios.

“We’re especially pleased about the Trail this year,” says spokesperson Kim Hamilton. “We have a cluster of venues in and around the Pioneer Village and the far flung studios are all great drives, excellent for people who seldom travel beyond the Heads and Village.”

Central to the trail map are six venues, clustered beside Mangawhai Museum, which has its annual book fair on at the same time. 

“Last year people enjoyed visiting the heritage church, this year we are thrilled to be filling four heritage buildings – the church, post office, Tara Road School and the Te Arai library,” explains Kim. “Then there’s an easy stroll to the studio of Sarah C, and across the road to Stylish Homes who have offered us a beautiful show home for what is going to be a super display.”

For those driving, park the car and take in the work of 18 artists.

There are more venues tucked in around the streets of Mangawhai for people to visit before heading for the outer reaches of the Trail where there are more superb venues – Barrier View Drive, Pigeon Berry Lane, Cove Road, Pebblebrook Road and Daisy Cottage on Devich Road – the names alone give an idea of the beautiful spots worth visiting plus lots of art, talking to the artists and enjoying beautiful vistas and parts of Mangawhai often unseen by visitors.

Mangawhai Artists Gallery is venue number one and is a good place to begin. Thirty five artists are showing their work with many of them participating in the Trail as well. Trail books and maps will be available at the gallery. 

For many people who look forward to the annual Easter Art Trail this is an opportunity to enjoy art and meeting people. There will be a lot of excellent art on offer to tempt you to take something home. Eftpos is available at the gallery and the heritage village, and have some cash in your pocket – you will be amazed at the art and the affordability of it.

Participating in the Trail is free. The Art Trail Guide is $10 – from Mangawhai Artists Gallery, Gas Mangawhai, Mangawhai Museum and Mangawhai Books & Gifts – contributing to Mangawhai Artists fundraising. All funds go towards helping Mangawhai Artists involve the community in art and creativity. 

 Mangawhai Easter Art Trail, Easter Saturday and Sunday April 20-21, 10am-3pm daily. For more info check out mangawhaiartists.co.nz/art-trails.