Latest exhibition shows artists in their element

Four complete strangers come together in a new two-week exhibition – Nature’s Elements – which opened at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery on May 6. One thing unites them, the fact that their love of nature has greatly inspired and influenced their artwork in many different ways.

"The gifts and lessons that nature offers me are intertwined both in my life and paintings,” says Jocelyn Friis. “Nature's creative insights and awe lead me to my canvas where I freely express what flows through from my experience."

Jocelyn has been on an ever-evolving art adventure since she was a child. She loves the playful, spontaneous and healing ways that creativity has presented itself to her.

Joanna Bagley has a graphic design and fine arts background.

"Native New Zealand birds are what inspire my artwork the most,” she says. “The kereru is my favourite bird because of the graceful and playful way it dives when flying. They make flying look so effortless and joyful."

Joanna loves creating large ceramic sculptures that challenge the limits of the kiln space and are a feat to achieve without cracks. The backgrounds and the birds are all painted freehand.

Raewyn vague was introduced to quilling (paper filigree) on a cruise ship approximately 30 years ago. She now concentrates on bringing birds and animals to life in 3D pictures made with strips of coloured paper.

“Living in Mangawhai has definitely opened my eyes to much more nature, especially with regards to birds, more so than living in a major city."

In this exhibition Raewyn has concentrated on birds that are found in New Zealand.

Grace Cheng has been a resident in Mangawhai for several years and joined the Mangawhai Artists Gallery soon after moving here. She has previously participated in the Easter and Christmas shows in the gallery.

“Just like the Californian poppies that pop up in my garden each year, my new series of artworks are equally as bright and cheerful.”

This will be her first small group exhibition where she'll be showing a number of colourful works.

n Nature’s Elements is open daily at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery, 45 Moir St, Mangawhai from 10am to 3pm until midday on Wednesday May 19. Visit mangawhaiartists.co.nz

Nature’s Elements features artworks by, from left, Raewyn Vague, Joanna Bagley, Grace Cheng, and Jocelyn Friis. PHOTO/SUPPLIED