Mixed palette of original talent

 

Laughter and socialising appears to be a vital part of the creative process for members of Mangawhai’s longest running art group, who recently held an exhibition at the local gallery in Moir Street.

‘The Originals’, a troop of artistic locals from budding enthusiasts to those who have honed their skill over the years, showcased 15 mixed medium designs in their exhibit, ‘Mixed Palette’ from November 10–14.

One of the original members of the ‘Originals’, Ann Howard, who joined in 2002, says the Monday morning gathering offers a supportive, friendly place for beginners and also ‘a great social get together’.

“We have a good laugh every time we’re there,” Howard says. “Sometimes it seems there’s more talking going on than painting.”

Although the group organise regular workshops tutored by experienced artists, the member support and feedback is an invaluable element of the Originals.

Gordon McGibbon and Aiwen Wang, who have been attending for over three years, say the peer encouragement keeps them painting and builds confidence to experiment with different techniques and art mediums.

“The others always made feel welcome,” Wang says. “I never learnt art and the other members helped me find my style… my paintings are definitely getting better.”

To date women dominant the art group with only two men amongst the 30 artists although long-time member Ailene Featherstone says they seem to enjoy themselves.

“I don’t think they feel out of it. They were warned though, that we would be speaking our minds,” she says with a laugh. “I just love how everyone gets on. I always go home on Monday afternoons on a high.”

The Originals meet every Monday morning 9.30-12 at Mangawhai Heads Senior Citizen Hall, and welcome absolute beginners through to more experienced artists.