An exhibition featuring work by 20 local artists and printmakers took place at the Lake Hāwea Community Centre last weekend, and exhibitors were thrilled with the turnout, venue and feedback. 

“We’ve had so many people through and so much positive feedback,” artist Carol Saxby said, while fellow artist Janice Milburn said the response had been “super”. 

The exhibition ran on Saturday and Sunday (January 9-10) and visiting on Sunday afternoon the place was still abuzz with people exploring the hundreds of pieces on show. 

Exhibitors comprised members from two groups which meet weekly at the Wanaka Arts Centre: a group of painters who meet on Mondays and printmakers, who meet on Thursdays. 

Carol said teaming up to hold the shared event provided lots of variety for patrons. 

Works by local artist Carol Saxby, who mixed techniques in oil and acrylic to accentuate the form, colour and texture of these pieces.

And the artwork had been running out the door: Artist Debbie Ballantyne said she couldn’t guess the number of pieces sold but said everyone was “very pleased” with sales. 

There was all sorts of original art on display, from landscape painting to portraits and everything in between; there were also lots of prints and handmade cards available to buy, and one artist, set up with her paints and brushes, chatted with visitors about her process while she painted.

The groups normally hold an exhibition together each year but last year’s event had to be canned because of COVID-19. 

Specialising mostly in watercolour, artist Iris Abaecherli exhibited 49 pieces, ranging from landscapes to plants.

They decided to try a new venue this year and their choice of the Hāwea Community Centre turned out to be the cherry on top for the successful event. 

“It’s just an amazing space,” Carol said. “In the past we have held lots of exhibitions at the [Wanaka] arts centre but space is limited there.”

“The light and space in here are just beautiful and it works so well for an exhibition.”

Carol thanked the community centre team for all its help and the local community for their support.

She said the group would definitely be choosing the centre as its venue for next year’s exhibition.

PHOTOS: Wanaka App