Calling All Art Lovers

After the First World War it was decided that Pigeon Bay was in need of a hall, as over 40 children attended the local schools and nearly 60 families lived in the locality. Local landowner Mr Hay generously donated a piece of waterfront land and construction began in 1920, using local labour and materials.

Utilising the old springs from the Christchurch Town Hall, which burnt down in 1873, it also houses one of the largest sprung dance floors in New Zealand complete with a stage and a meeting room at the back of the hall. Used by local schools for plays and assemblies as well as social gatherings, drama and music events and weddings, it has become a social hub for the local community.

And for art lovers and painters Penny Townshend and Alice Lewis, it is the perfect location in which to hold the Pigeon Bay Exhibition. ‘It is such a wonderful venue,’ enthuses Alice. ‘It has a huge amount of wall space, which makes it perfect for exhibitions.’

This Easter Weekend, 11 – 13 April, will see over 20 different artists on display. ‘Over half of the exhibitors are new names [from the last exhibition], which is great,’ continues Alice. ‘We will also be running a series of workshops that will allow people a hands-on experience.’

Workshops include foraging and fermentation, dry point etching, printmaking and more. Email alicelewis@xtra.co.nz for full details.