The famous French artist, Henri Matisse said, ‘Creativity takes courage’.
Well, the Howick Art Group must be some of the bravest people in Howick as they gear up for their annual Midwinter Art Exhibition.
This event is a showcase of more than 50 local artists’ works brimming with colour, diversity and talent.
The Howick Art Group was established nearly 50 years ago and has been a haven for art appreciation ever since.
Their gallery at Green Gables Cottage on Cook St, Howick, has a bright selection of art for sale that is changed over monthly.
Its current president, Elise De Silva, joined the group a few years ago.
On her experience there, she says, “The Howick Art Group is not just about art, it’s about community and family and celebrating everyone’s inner creativity. Whether you’re a professional artist or a once-a-year hobby painter, there’s a place for everyone. I’ve made wonderful friends in the group and have learned so much from the great wealth of experience and talent.”
Every month the club is treated to art demonstrations or presentations by a vast array of New Zealand artists.
They also host subsidised workshops which are supported with funding from the Howick Local Board.
‘With the funding we are able to pay demonstrating artists well for their time and give club members a rich and wide-ranging art programme,’ says De Silva.
This year, the Howick Art Group will be adding a new element to their exhibition – daily art demonstrations.
De Silva says, ‘For many people, painting is a great mystery, and it’s fascinating to watch an artist at work. We often look at a painting and think, how did they do that?” De Silva says.
“This is a chance for people to watch artists at work, ask questions and hopefully be inspired to get creative themselves.”
Demonstrations will run twice daily during the exhibition at 11am and 2pm.
The Midwinter Exhibition will be held at the Fencible Lounge, Howick Library from July 15-18, open 9am-4pm. Entry is free.
