As the bustling energy of the year winds down, Auckland’s art scene takes on a reflective and tranquil tone, offering a perfect antidote to the summer heat.
During this quieter season, galleries across the city present thoughtfully curated exhibitions that invite viewers to slow down, engage deeply, and find inspiration in the stillness. This summer immerse yourself in creativity at one of the following creative spaces…
SHOP 21
Toropapa, Jasmine
Hannah Maurice, Benedict Maurice
On until – 11 December
Toropapa, Jasmine is a compelling body of work by Hannah and Benedict Maurice that explores the nuanced relationships we have with flowers – finding them, picking them (or choosing not to), and the tension between weeds and taonga. It reflects on themes of protection and behaviour, grappling with feelings of guilt, moments of benediction, and the simple act of making the most of what’s available.
Shop 21, The Strand Arcade, Queen Street
Follow the artist on Instagram: @honeymoonseastudio
TE TUHI
Vidéo Club: Screening Programme
Anouk Nier-Nantes, Émilie Pierson, Marina Smorodinova
On until – 22 December.
Te Tuhi is proud to partner with the French contemporary art fund FRAC Champagne-Ardenne for the second international edition of Vidéo Club, a project fostering connections in moving image practice between France and Aotearoa New Zealand. This season, Te Tuhi presents three captivating video works by artists Anouk Nier-Nantes, Émilie Pierson, and Marina Smorodinova, offering a unique glimpse into contemporary moving image art from France’s Grand Est region. The exhibition runs throughout most of the summer season. The gallery will be closed from 23 December until 3 January.
21 William Roberts Road, Pakuranga
MELANIE RODGER GALLERY
Summer Clouds
Group Show
11 – 21 December
Melanie Roger’s annual summer exhibition offers a selection of works by the gallery’s esteemed roster of artists, complemented by contributions from specially invited guest artists. The exhibition, on view throughout the summer break, embraces a dynamic and fluid approach, with potential adjustments to the curation ensuring a fresh and evolving experience. In January, viewings are available by appointment, with regular gallery hours resuming from February.
444 Karangahape Rd, Newton
TWO ROOMS
Forest of Dreams
Judy Darragh
31 January – 1 March
Forest of Dreams, featuring Judy Darragh, opens for public preview on 30 January, from 5.30pm-7.30pm. Christchurch-born Darragh is celebrated for her vibrant sculptural assemblages, video works, collages, photography, and poster art. Rising
to prominence in the 1980s, her distinctive style – marked by eclectic iconoclasm and sharp wit – offered a spirited critique of the era’s materialism and free-market reforms. Her works are held in major public collections across New Zealand. Two Rooms closes for Christmas on 21 December, and reopens on 14 January.
16 Putiki Street, Grey Lynn
tworooms.co.nz
