Art 2 Go...and Go and Go!

After completing my review of Brydie Baxter's show at the Bank Gallery, I walk into the most gorgeous Southland summer afternoon. Sunny, but not too hot, with a very slight breeze. My resolve to hunt for the closest parking space next to City Gallery, to go to do this review, wanes quickly amid the temptations of the lush green and floral beauty of Queen's Park, the botanical crown jewel of Invercargill. I am glad my resolve wins.

Better hurry!! Art 2 Go, at Southland Art Society's City Gallery in Invercargill, showcasing incredible variety and selection of art during the Christmas and summer holidays, closes next Wednesday, 4 February. The array of talent is remarkable, including beautiful pastels by Lyn Henry, John Cutt, and Marion Millar. Paintings by Latisha Tonkin, Angela McMeekan, Jane Duncan, and Carl Tonkin greet you in the front gallery, along with the extraordinary felted artistry of Ann Irving. The extensive roster of artists continues with gorgeous quilted wall hangings of Errolyn Taane.

Don't be shy...venture on into the back gallery where you'll discover handmade cards and skilful watercolour landscapes by Otatara artist Pam McMillan. One of my favourite finds, and it is hard to choose, is Nick Fedaeff and his collection of humourous and whimsical compositions. Chris Wilkie presents a great variety of work, including Kakariki, created with mixed media and fire. Very interesting and done well. There is also Rob Smith's metal crafting, as well as Ray Willett's very cheeky 3-D wall art. Other paintings include landscapes by Molly Hutton, Jill Howie, and Southland Art Society's new president, Gordon Duston. And don't forget to check out the children's wooden puzzles beautifully crafted by Simon Tonkin on centre plinth.

Gabrielle Thomas, manager of City Gallery, shown in the photo with one of her acrylics on offer, says the change of the event to the Christmas and summer season has been a resounding success with many sales. Art 2 Go, offers the buyer an opportunity to take the art upon payment rather than waiting until the exhibition ends. The artist can then exhibit even more work, which is why you won't see "Sold" stickers dotting the gallery.

Before you leave City Gallery, climb the stairs to the Member's gallery to find some really nice contemporary pieces by Tess Van Djik, J. Sinclair, Chavah Kinlock, and a contemporary landscape by Janet DeWagt. Other works for sale are landscapes by Janie Porter, Kirk Munroe, John Klenick, Roger Barclay, and E. Heuton. A yellow-eyed penguin in watercolour by SE Linsay is simply lovely. Again, quite difficult to pick a favourite, but I have to say I continue to be impressed by Tess Van Djik and her willingness to explore and take chances in her artwork. Tess started painting in earnest a few years ago and goes from strength to strength.

Ms. Thomas says there are some good changes afoot; therefore the member's gallery is being relocated. So stay tuned. Mark your calendars for "Blokes Art", featuring the works of male artists, starting 6 March running till 1 April.

City Gallery is located in Public Trust Building (next to the Public Trust offices) at 28 Don Street. Open: Tuesday thourgh Friday 11 to 4 and Saturdays 10 to 2. Phone 3-214-1319 or email citygallery@ihug.co.nz for more information.