Art gallery founders hand over the reins

After more than two decades showcasing some of Manawatu¯ ’s finest artworks, the founders of Taylor-jensen Fine Arts are retiring.

Managing director Stuart Schwartz, who began the business in 1997, said the gallery in central Palmerston North would be handed over to managers who hope to become owners in about six months.

‘‘This [is] fantastic news which means the gallery has at least another six months to showcase art and hopefully another 22 years and more.’’

To celebrate their latest venture, new gallery directors Rob Haakman and Feona Sayles are presenting an exhibition that allows the public to meet with them and buy new artworks.

Strictly Personal opened on Friday and showcases work from Haakman and his protege, Serena Deane.

Palmerston North-born Haakman credits Footrot Flats, Asterix and 2000 AD as some of Serena Deane is exhibiting for the first time at Taylor-jensen. his earliest influences. ‘‘In my teens I became enamoured with the modern art of the early 20th century, particularly dada and surrealism, the visual language of dreams,’’ Haakman said.

‘‘My work is largely influenced by dream and myth, whether classical or pop culture, and the way in which we mythologise our own lives.

‘‘My art in Strictly Personal falls in the latter category: daily life told in a fairly whimsical visual language.’’

Deane said she found her style while attending UCOL in Palmerston North last year.

‘‘I love the vibes of pastel colours heavily contrasting with dark line work.’’

She has been been producing art for about four years and said she hoped to achieve a fulltime career centred on her artwork.

‘‘For now I’m happy just making people stop to look at my work and perhaps proclaim ‘‘hot damn’’, when they see it.’’

Strictly Personal is Serena’s first exhibition in a dealer gallery.

The exhibition continues at the George St gallery through to September 7.