Village art and heritage entwined

An exciting artistic collaboration between two of east Auckland’s treasured institutions has taken flight.

Exhibiting artworks by members of the Howick Art Group depicting scenes of the Howick Historical Village go on public display in Bell House from this Sunday to next Tuesday, May 10-12, 10am to 4pm.

“The Howick Art Group and the Howick Historical Village have been working together for the past couple of months,” says Julie Mitchell, of the art group.

“Several members of the group have spent a lot of time exploring the beautiful scenery, stunning views, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere of the village.

“They’ve been enthralled and inspired by the plethora of subject matter available.”

Howick Historical Village general manager Lexie Palmer-Gapper says: “We’ve enjoyed having the Howick Art Group members on site during our last few live days, as well as during the week.

“I particularly like when people are using our space in a different way and willing to engage with our visitors about their mahi. Especially when the mahi is art!

“The artworks are well conceived and beautifully painted. A mix of landscapes, architectural portraits, and still-lives – the paintings capture the spirit of the village from the small, but mighty cottages down to the sculptural qualities of the quiet, utilitarian, domestic objects therein.

“The exhibition will be up for a few days after the Mother’s Day Live Day and is free to visit. Please drop by,” says Palmer-Gapper.

“The idea behind en plein air style painting traces back to the Barbizon School and Impressionists in France, the Hudson River School, and later John Singer Sargent, in America, and the Heidelberg School in Australia.

“Born in opposition to the highly controlled and often stifling routines of the academy, these artists were known for their penchant for working quickly, in the fresh air, to capture shifting light and colours, shade and atmosphere of their surrounding world.

“Generally speaking, they often started and finished a painting in situ but were also known to return to the studio to finish the composition.

“We’re excited to use Bell House as a white cube gallery space. These colourful, intimate, dynamic works will be set off to their best advantage in this architecturally and historically significant building.”

Mitchell says: “Both the Howick Historical Village and the Howick Art Group are excited to share the results of this collaboration.

“Sunday, May 10, is a live day at the historical village, with a theme of Palettes and Perfume, being a fun nod to both Mother’s Day and exhibition.

“We’d be thrilled if you could visit and show your support for these beloved Howick institutions.

“There are some truly amazing works going on display, and they’re all available for purchase.”