Marlborough Art Society showcases four distinct artists in new exhibition
Carolyn Costley, left, Tamara Jansen, and Annette Michna-Konigstorfer get tactile with the texture of Tamara’s textiles on display in the new exhibition “A Square of Four” at Marlborough Art Society Gallery and Studio. Photo: Evan Tuchinsky
Along High Street in Blenheim, the classic design of Marlborough Art Society’s sign draws many a wandering eye. The building behind it holds the gallery and studio where visual artists exhibit their works and hone their talents.
The organisation brings together a surprising number of creatives. After a recent update of its rolls, Marlborough Art Society found 250 members remain active and involved. They hail from every corner of the province – Tamara Jansen, for one, comes in regularly from Wairau Valley.
Tamara serves on the committee that governs the group. She also is one of the organisers of the new exhibition which opened 31 January and runs through 15 February. “A Square of Souls” features the work of four artists including Tamara; the others are Annette Michna-Konigstorfer, Jenny Somerville, and Jarod Udy.
“We chose the name because it’s four souls, and four souls is a square, so ‘A Square of Souls,’” Tamara explained last Thursday afternoon – a day ahead of the preview – alongside Annette and society president Carolyn Costley. Carolyn is a painter who has exhibited in other society shows.
Every exhibition is different, of course, but “A Square of Souls” is representative of the organisation’s events, totalling 14 this year. Per the description, this one “showcase[s] vibrant acrylics, resin, delicate drawings, expressive watercolours, and striking photography in a celebration of creativity and community.”
Marlborough Art Society is itself a creative community. Most of its members are practising artists. The group also partners with other organisations such as Alzheimers New Zealand, Marlborough Newcomers, and the Marlborough Multicultural Centre.
“We integrate creativity, connections, and well-being into the community in Marlborough – making people feel welcome and part of things,” Carolyn said. “I think we’re a very vibrant society; people from other places seem to be wowed at the spaces we have and how much we have going on. We have people of all skill levels and all ages.”
Marlborough Art Society Gallery and Studio is at 204 High Street. Call 03 577 6784 or visit www.marlboroughartsociety.co.nz for hours, exhibitions and workshops.