Art and about in the Waikato
A veritable frenzy of all things arty will take place next month, for the fourth Huntly and Districts Art Trail.
The two-day event kicks off at our very own Woodlands on Friday night, and it’s looking to be a splendid evening, says co-ordinator Judy Cole.
“More than 40 artists are taking part in the weekend, and we’re inviting every one of them to turn up on opening night, with just one piece of their work, to give people a little taster of what’s on offer.”
Judy came up with the idea for the Art Trail back in 2007 as a way of raising awareness of the Huntly Rotary Club, as well as to showcase art to the wider community.
“This is a chance for the public to see all the talent that abounds in the district. There really is so much going on by very talented people.”
This year the guest country is South Africa, so the opening night will have a strong South African flavour.
“We’ll greet guests with a complimentary glass of South African wine. Juice will also be available, and delicous finger food. We’re still finalising the entertainment, but there’s bound to be some vigorous drumming, I would think.”
Some of the work on show at Woodlands will include etchings, mosaics, pumice carving, paua pictures, fabric art, quilting and embroidery, floral art and sculptures. “And there’s way more.”
The art trail stretches from Waerenga to Ngaruawahia and Gordonton, by way of Te Kauwhata, Glen Murray Road, Ohinewai and Huntly. There is also an art compeition for children, whose work will be displayed in the Huntly Library.
The trail is a free event, and is supported by Huntly Rotary and the Waikato Coalfield Museum.
“It really is a community effort, that’s the focus and what it’s all about.”
Brochures are available from Woodlands, Sweetman’s Shop in Huntly, Gordonton’s Simply Georgeours Beauty Salon, Waikato District Council and Ngaruawahia, Te Kauwhata, Huntly libraries.
- The grand opening of the Art Trail takes place at the Woodlands Function Centre, Gordonton, on Friday March 16, at 7pm. Tickets $30, available from Woodlands, or Sweetman’s Shop, Huntly.
- The trail kicks off at 10am Saturday 17, until 4pm, and for the same times again on Sunday 18 March.
