One of summer’s keenly anticipated arts events returns soon, when Lower Hutt’s beautiful Civic Gardens are brought to life by the sixth Shapeshifter outdoor sculpture exhibition.
Over the past twelve years, Shapeshifter has evolved to become one of the premier sculpture exhibitions in New Zealand. Guy Ngan, Tanya Ashken and Mia Hamilton are amongst 58 artists showing as part of Banks Shoes Shapeshifter 2014.
‘Daisy Blanket’ 2012, Mia Hamilton (Wellington), plastic and twine, 140mm tall, 5m wide, 5m deep
The 2014 exhibition reflects a wide range of mediums and scale – from the traditional to the surprising and has been pulled together from around New Zealand. This time the selection was made by The Dowse Art Museum’s director Courtney Johnston who says, “I am excited about the diversity of this year’s selection.”
“Shapeshifter is always a highlight of the New Zealand Festival calendar and this time will be no different; I’m confident there are both striking and amusing pieces that will suit a range of interests.”
The biennial event is held in the Civic Gardens of Lower Hutt to raise money for local charities such as Te Omanga Hospice, the Gillies McIndoe Research Institute, The Dowse Art Museum and youth programmes in the HuttValley.
Shapeshifter is expected to attract high visitor numbers and is open until 7pm each night to cater for the after work crowd. Take a picnic, and make the most of the gardens, the art and the summer.
All works are for sale – in the outdoor exhibition as well as the smaller cash and carry show, which is indoors.
www.shapeshifter.org.nz
Where: Riddiford and Civic Gardens, Lower Hutt
When: 11am – 7pm each day
Cost: Adult $7.00, accompanied children free.
Feature Image: Detail from Daisy Blanket 2012, Mia Hamilton (Wellington), plastic and twine, 140mm tall, 5m wide, 5m deep