Gallery season opens with art awards exhibit

 

The Kaipara Art Awards exhibition has arrived at Mangawhai Artists Gallery and launches their 2018-19 programme of exhibitions with a high calibre creative bang.

A large collection of amazing and thought provoking art is on display.

The stunning collection of over 50 works has been praised for its diversity, skill and beauty. Many of the artists have reflected on where they live and taken Kaipara to the heart of their entries for the 2018 Kaipara Art Awards.

“The exhibition is outstanding, with fantastic artistic contributions – a marvellous showcase for local art,” said Mangawhai Artists chair Mary-Anne Boyd.

The annual Kaipara Art Awards are hosted by Mangawhai Artists Inc and the Dargaville Art Association with the prize ceremony alternating each year, thanks largely to sponsors Pub Charity, Kaipara Lifestyler, Westmoreland Homes, Mangawhai Optometrists, and Flax & Fibre.
Judge Richard Cranenburgh awarded the prizes at the Dargaville opening last month.

On judging the awards for the second year in a row he said his choices came from many years of looking at art as well as ‘from the heart’. He praised the work on show. 

“This year l did see an overall step up the ladder from last year, especially in the three-dimensional work – such diversity and high quality craftsmanship.” 

Prizes for two dimension: First Christine Moginie, Judges Award Peter Bradburn, Second Shelia Shadick, Third Annie Kitchener, Merit Carlyn Condon.

Prizes for three dimension: First Samala Waipouri, Judges Award Margot Symes, Second Evonne Tana, Third John Ecuyer, Merit Terry Haines.

 Opening night photos can be seen online at mangawhaiartists.co.nz/exhibitions-current. The Kaipara Art Awards are exhibiting at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery until 5.30pm, August 29.