Artists’ talent put on display

Exhibition on show

0 It was a transformation of the Woodville Racecourse venue beneath the public grandstand when the Lindauer Committee opened its exhibition on Tuesday April 18.

Hundreds of metres of black curtain provided the backdrop for the white feature boards on which the 130 artworks had been hung.

The work of two featured local arts, Michael Mabey of Woodville and Ali Milne-Jones of Norsewood, were displayed in separate locations and drew huge interest.

The exhibition was opened by Mayor Tracey Collis who said it was the best yet and she couldn’t believe there was so much talent in Tararua. She also found it hard to believe the two featured local artists had not been displayed publicly before.

She unveiled a copy of a new Lindauer from Charles Hambling of Sydney, who donated the picture of his Aunt Nin — Elizabeth Prattley.

Alan Benbow representing Scanpower, announced sponsorship of the exhibition and the artist in residence.

“It would be great to see Woodville become an art centre of excellence going forward,” he said.

Kevin McIntyre said the exhibition would be brought back next year to March in time to coincide with the next artist in residence from Pilsen University in the Czech Republic.

He said he was thrilled with the great response of local artists, saying a small hanging charge did not put them off. All paintings are for sale. The atmosphere in the gallery was very relaxed with drinks and nibbles complemented by the music of Dale Percy on oboe with Deirdre Power singing.

The exhibition opens to the public on April 20 at the Farmer’s Races and closes on Anzac Day.

Michael Mabey’s canvas prints of 1950s fantasy scenes.

Anne Bennett’s painting of Akitio Beach surrounded by work from Ian Mabbitt was described by little Bella Shearman as her favourite painting, which made her want to go there.

Ali Milne — Jones and her family (Maddison, Malaki, husband Kevin) pose beside her landscape photographs.

AN interested crowd of invited guests listened to the speakers.

Mayor Tracey Collis and Sue McLeod Chair of the Lindauer Society open the Art Exhibition at the Woodville Race Course on Tuesday April 18 and acknowledge the gift of a new Lindauer of Elizabeth Prattley (displayed left).

Jade and Ava Charman from Papatawa School stand by their paintings, Ava’s inspired by Salvador Dali’s elephants with long legs.

Mary J Murray’s Hawke’s Bay Coast and Roger Burson’s autumn colours reflected the landscape theme of the exhibition.

Michael Mabey’s imposing wood sculptures of Jesus, Mary Magdalene and the return of the Holy Grail.