Art seen: December 4 | Otago Daily Times Online News

“Without You I’m Something”, by Denise Porter-Howland

(Hutch)

At Hutch, visitors are invited to explore the daily routines and rituals of artist Denise Porter-Howland through a unique semi-interactive display.

Porter-Howland’s exhibition showcases miniature ceramic signs and symbols inspired by her everyday life. From realistic interpretations to surreal creations and inside jokes, the sculptures depict mundane objects like stubbed-out cigarettes, sleepy eyes, fashion boots, half-eaten fast food, and discarded underpants.

One of the highlights of the exhibit is a collection of works featuring body parts arranged in unconventional ways, reminiscent of surrealist “exquisite corpses” or the Misfits board game. Originally intended for visitors to rearrange, the pieces are now displayed with photographic cut-outs for a similar effect.

Noteworthy among the artworks are two ceramic pieces incorporating bright red fabric. One piece features a red scarf as part of a ceramic dog’s head, while the other portrays a gleeful shark with red fabric resembling blood flowing from its teeth.

“Strands”

(Milford Gallery)

The “Strands” exhibition at Milford Gallery showcases the works of three prominent Māori artists, each exploring the connections and conflicts between history and Māori spirituality.

Representing three generations of New Zealand art, the exhibit pays homage to the late Ralph Hotere, whose works reflect themes of lost land and people. Lisa Reihana’s photographic pieces delve into the complexities of first contact between Māori and colonists, challenging historical narratives and traditional beliefs.

Completing the trio is Heidi Brickell, whose mixed media works blend traditional Māori symbolism with abstract forms, creating visually striking pieces with deep symbolic meanings.

“Around Christmas”

(Gallery De Novo)

Gallery De Novo’s annual “Around Christmas” exhibition has become a beloved local tradition, featuring a diverse array of circular artworks by local artists.

With a strict specification of a 200mm diameter circle, artists showcase their creativity within this constraint. The gallery walls are adorned with over 300 artworks, ranging from landscapes and abstracts to nudes and Christmas scenes.

From Juliet Best’s radiant landscapes to Flynn Barnes’ maritime scenes, Stephanie Crisp’s urban panoramas to Jan Ingram’s intricate stained glass depictions, the exhibition offers a rich tapestry of artistic styles and subjects.

With a variety of mediums and techniques on display, “Around Christmas” is a visual feast that invites viewers to immerse themselves in the world of circular art.