Escape to art oasis in the countryside

There are few things in life more refreshing and inspiring than a peaceful drive through the New Zealand countryside, especially when there’s a great destination to look forward to.

Whether you need a break from the city or just want to enjoy some art in a beautiful location, you’ll find a welcome reprieve at the wonderful Bryce Gallery in Ohoka.

Moving from Riccarton Road to this charming township, the gallery really is an oasis for artlovers.

Nestled within a four-acre botanical garden dotted with elegant European-style fountains, magnificent sculptures and a pond, the beautiful settings here will take your breath away.

Stepping inside the large, modern homestead, you’ll love strolling through each art-filled room and taking a moment to admire each piece.

With 300 paintings from 37 exceptional New Zealand artists, there’s a lot to see, including contemporary fine art paintings, fine glass, jewellery, Giclee prints and more.

The picturesque grounds outside are a masterpiece themselves.

Taking a year to develop, they showcase Bryce Gallery’s vision to become a tranquil oasis, and feature flower and sculpture gardens alongside native plants and stunning water features.

Visitors to the gallery are well looked after by the professional management team, with Min Kim, James Stewart, Pauline Roberts and Russell Parry ready to meet guests and talk about art.

Naturally, the Gallery’s caretakers get a lot of questions from the public.

Curator and artist Min recalls a recent time when a client asked her, ‘‘What is the Bryce Gallery philosophy?’’

‘‘I answered directly that our goal is to help people have a celebration of life with quality fine arts,’’ she says.

This goal is demonstrated through the regular workshops and masterclasses hosted by Bryce Gallery throughout the year. Currently Min is teaching a masterclass on 19th century classical fine art, plus workshops that teach drawing, watercolours and contemporary oil painting.

Just 30 minutes from central Christchurch, visit Bryce Gallery this weekend to find out more!

❚ Bryce Gallery is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10am5pm at 84 Vincenza Drive, Ohoka, as well as by appointment. Phone

03 312 0901 or 021 204 3191 or visit www.brycegallery.co.nz

Surrounded by a four-acre botanical garden, complete with magnificent European-styled fountains, Bryce Gallery is a weekend escape for art lovers.

With paintings, sculptures, fine glass, jewellery and Giclee prints, there’s so much art to see here.