Otago Daily Times

‘‘A Retrospect­ive Exhibition: 1968—2020’’, Denis Kent

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(Central Stories Museum & Art Gallery)

SPANNING 52 years, the undeniable gift of painter Denis Kent is on full display at Central Stories, showcasing not only the long career of an extremely talented artist, but the history of a region. Kent frequently depicts rural scenes in Central Otago and Mt Aspiring National Park, his intricate brushstrok­es and sharp eye for detail capturing the land as it was, and as it will ever be here, casting a sense of timelessne­ss and grandeur even into the most everyday of settings.

The handling of the landscapes and the use of light is superb. The sun seems to touch every blade of grass, mist folds around trees in an atmosphere both eerie and serene, and water tumbles past rocks and ferns with a mirrorlike translucen­cy. The communicat­ion of atmosphere is one of Kent’s many strengths — in Dappled Sunlight, the figures of two hikers are mere shadows under the majesty of the tree canopy, but as they walk into an almost heavenly glow, that allencompa­ssing awe and immense peace to be found in the heart of the forest emanates from the canvas.

The human presence is equally poignant. With just a few strokes, Kent conveys emotion through a figure’s body language, as they kneel enthralled amidst a profusion of flowers in The Lavender Garden, or go out fishing in solitary serenity, converse in a cafe, or gather with their children to enjoy a day by the river.

As it heads into its final weekend, this delightful exhibition is an experience not to be missed.

 ??  ?? The Lavender Garden, by Denis Kent
The Lavender Garden, by Denis Kent

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