Garden sets scene for art display

WORDS & PHOTOS: JULIA WADE

Ingenious art, soulful sounds and tasty entrees were all served up to a steady stream of visitors at the recent ‘Sculpture in the Garden’ exhibit, a collaborative fundraiser serving two local organisations, Mangawhai Art Inc and social services advocates, Te Whai Community Trust.

Te Whai president Isabel Hollis’ property became an outdoor gallery for the weekend on February 15-16, decorated by more than 30 local, neighbouring and international sculptors, and visited by nearly 500 adults and children. Although still waiting on the final tally from art sold at the show, the numbers from those attended and Devonshire teas consumed all point to a successful exhibit.

Hollis says the two groups are ‘absolutely thrilled’ to have so many people come through, and for the support of the community.

“A big thanks to Mangawhai Landscapes for donating river rocks for the Kids Corner, and for everyone who took the time to bake food for the cafe,” she says. “Overflow of food items were put towards our foodbank so have been given back to the community,” she says. “It was a lovely two days, the event coordinated really well and flowed beautifully.”