WHANGANUI HAPPENINGS
What if an artist was given free rein to infiltrate a building, extending beyond their studio space to fill it with their own sculptural work? From 8-10 December sculptor Isabella Loudon is opening up the building she has been working in for the last two years, and has now taken over. This is a rare chance to see a site-specific multi-roomed installation before the building is demolished in 2024.
“Trek across the country if you have to, Loudon’s studio is an unsettling immersive experience – open for a tiny window in space and time before disappearing forever” Sarjeant Gallery director, Andrew Clifford
In late 2021, due to a bad bout of glandular fever Loudon returned home to her family in Marton to recover. One of the benefits of being in Marton was access to a studio space in a vacant commercial building owned by her parents. Initially it was just the former bookshop space downstairs and not the empty flat upstairs but as she settled in and was recovering from fatigue, the prospect of occupying the entire building became more appealing and over the last year she’s done just that. The building has become a giant artist project, with each of the rooms offering her an opportunity to bring works into conversation and play with each other and the architecture. Given the building is scheduled for demolition and with understanding and supportive parents as landlords, the gloves have been off, walls demolished, carpets pulled up, the building peeled back.
ON NOW NGĀ TAI HURI HURI
What: The Sarjeant Gallery presents a very special performance for Whanganui by Deborah Wai Kapohe, Stephen Diaz, Mone Isoda, Jasmin Ratana and the Whanganui Brass percussionists at the Royal Whanganui Opera House that concludes with the dramatic Gareth Farr composition Ngā Tai Huri Huri, which tells of changing tides and seasons, and new becoming old.
The performance will include Tieke Tarapuruhi, a collaborative moving image work by Cecelia Kumeroa and Dr Vincent van Uitregt
A Musician’s for the Sarjeant event, proudly supported by Murray and Denise Lazelle.
When: Sunday, December 3, Doors open 4pm for 4.30pm start. Finish is 5.30pm
Where: Royal Whanganui Opera House, St Hill Street, Whanganui Details: Tickets: $30 plus booking
fee from isite only or online at iTicket.co.nz or click here: http:/ /www.iticket.co.nz/events/ 2023/dec/nga-tai-huri-huri
TWO YEARS, 1 BUILDING, A STUDIO SHOW: ISABELLA LOUDON
What: What if an artist was given free rein to infiltrate a building, extending beyond their studio space to fill it with their own sculptural work?
When: December 8 - 10, 11am - 4pm Where: 214 Broadway, Marton
DROP IN BOOK FAIR
What: Book Fair by the Rotary Club of Whanganui
When: Saturday, November 18, from 11am - 3pm
Where: All Saints Church Hall cnr Moana and Duncan Streets, Whanganui East
Details: Fiction, wide range of books on health and wellbeing. all books cost $2.
WANGANUI COMMUNITY CHOIR’S CONCERT
What: “Together Hand In Hand”, with Guest Artist – Sophie Toyne – NZ Country Music Junior Entertainer of the Year 2023 followed by Afternoon Tea. Musical Director – Caleb Arthur When: November 25 at 2pm Where: Central Baptist Church, cnr Dublin & Wicksteed Streets Details: Adults $20.00, Seniors $15.00, Students $10.00, Family ticket $50.00, Children under 12 Free. Tickets available from choir members or at the door or contact: Edwyna 344 7974 / 027 360 1335
CURATORS TALK AT THE BACKHOUSE
What: Curator of Screams Dr Chelsea Nichols and Aaron Lister When: Thursday, November 16, 7–8pm
Details: Horror films are filled with lots of iconic pairings: the scary twins from The Shining, Billy and Stu from Scream, Laurie Strode and Michael Myers from Halloween. Chelsea Nichols (The Dowse) and Aaron Lister (City Gallery Wellington) will discuss how they bring this creepy twin energy to New Zealand art history through their ongoing collaboration ‘Curator of Screams’— including their most recent project, Eerie Pageantry, which brings together the work of Don Driver with contemporary Australian artist Julia Robinson to explore the theme of folk horror.
OPERA HOUSE
What: The Sweet Caroline Tour - a tribute to Neil Diamond putting all those well-loved classics back on stage and in the spotlight, showcased by a world-class international band and produced especially for the theatre. Step back into the glory days of music with this beautiful live tribute concert, featuring Sweet Caroline, Cherry Cherry, Red Red Wine and more. When: Saturday 18 November 8pm Where: Opera House
Tickets from the Box Office or online Ticketek
U3A LECTURE SERIES
When: Friday, November 17, Lisa Vonk from Massey University talks about digital technology and older people's health. 2pm St Andrew's Hall, Glasgow Street. $5 entry includes tea and biscuits, all welcome.
Tuesda, November 21, Dr Olivier Jutel speaks on democracy and online media, by Zoom at the Josephite Centre. 2pm, all welcome, $5 entry includes tea and biscuits.
TUI MOTU GROUP
What: Where articles from the current Tui Motu magazine are explored and discussed. When: Wednesday, November 15, 4 – 5.15pm with Liz Hickey rsj
Where: Josephite Retreat Centre, 14 Hillside Tce.
Full programme available on: www.marymackillop.org.nz
CREATIVE CARD MAKING
What: Suitable for beginners and regular crafters alike.
When: Saturday 18 November, 10am – 12.30pm or 1.30 – 3.30pm, Cost: $10 with Julia Martin Bookings essential
Where: Josephite Retreat Centre, 14 Hillside Tce.
Register: Phone 345 5047 ext 3 or email pam.hopper@sosj.org.au
Full programme available on: www.marymackillop.org.nz