Pigeon Post News: “Stoke - 'An Adventure in Art' - Unleashes Creative Diversity”

The Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre Stoke. Photo supplied Nelson City Council.

"Stoke's Artistic Triumph: 'An Adventure in Art' Exhibition Shines at Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre"

Stoke, mid August - A vibrant and inclusive celebration of art unfolded at the Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre in a week-long extravaganza titled 'An Adventure in Art - A Collaborative Exhibition Exploring All that ART is.' Artists from Stoke came together to present their astonishing creations, showcasing an extraordinary range of talent and creativity that captivated visitors from near and far.

Organized by Gareth Cashin, the Greenmeadows Center Manager, in collaboration with Karen Scott, Assistant Administrator, and in partnership with Karen Loten, from Art Group Nelson, this event featured an extensive array of art forms that left a profound impact. From enchanting crafts and compelling photography to emotionally stirring music and captivating designs, the exhibition vividly portrayed the rich tapestry of artistic creativity within the Stoke community.

From the left, Gareth Cashin, the Greenmeadows Centre Manager and Karen Scott, the Greenmeadows Centre Administrator. Photo supplied by the Greenmeadows Centre.

The journey leading to this remarkable event was marked by meticulous planning, hard work and dedication. Karen Scott recounted, "Gareth and I had a vision after the success of last year's Winter exhibition by 'Art Group Nelson.' We wanted art to become a wider community event, so we reached out to about 20 participating groups from Stoke, inviting them to be part of 'An Adventure in Art.’ The idea was to bring people into the Greenmeadows Centre and showcase a diverse range of amazing creative groups, providing something for everyone. The response was truly heartening."

The exhibition showcased the talents spanning generations, encompassing both the young and the elderly, thus fostering a sense of inclusivity and togetherness. This display of unity was represented through various art forms, ranging from the intricate to the expressive, leaving visitors in awe.

Karen Scott, with part of the Whanake Youth's exhibition. Photo R Therkleson.

Throughout the week, the Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre transformed into a dynamic hub of creative expression, hosting a diverse lineup of artists and groups. Dancers from 'Get Real Dancers' set the stage with Highland Dancing performances, followed by the soul-stirring 'Stoke Senior's Choir' members and a full house of senior supporters who came from local Retirement Villages to enjoy the Choir and have a cuppa.

Stoke Senior's Choir. Photo supplied by the Greenmeadows Centre.

Then the Whanake Youth's captivating photographic exhibition of rangatahi local youth inspired public art. "A superb colourful selection of photos," Karen Scott said of this exhibit.

Part of the Whanake Youth's exhibition. Photo supplied by the Greenmeadows Centre.

The 'Nelson Camera Club', Nayland College Visual Arts Students, and 'Art Group Nelson' took centre stage in Stoke. These groups brought their unique artistic styles, creating a captivating contrast for visitors. From the precision and creativity of the camera club's photography to Nayland College's students showcasing various artistic disciplines and Art Group Nelson's diverse creations, the exhibition offered a rare opportunity to experience a wide range of art forms. Each group's presentation reflected their dedication and individual perspectives, adding depth to the overall artistic experience and leaving art enthusiasts captivated.

Part of the Nelson Camera Club's exhibition. Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

Karen Scott said, “just under 900 people came through the centre during this time. Visitors were very impressed with the high standard of all the exhibits and particularly with the beautiful photographic images produced by 'Nelson Camera Club'.”

Part of the Art Group Nelson exhibition. Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

Karen also highlighted the significance of Nayland College's involvement, remarking on the students' enthusiasm for displaying their art. "It was wonderful to

The opening night of the Nayland College Visual Arts Students exhibition. Photo supplied by the Greenmeadows Centre.

see the student art on display, I knew they could do it! The students were absolutely thrilled. On the opening night of their exhibition there were about 140 people here at the event. The students were delighted, they were really delighted, the thrill for me was going into the room and seeing students taking selfies with their families in front of their artwork - they were so proud!

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Credit to Gilligan Wood for this pictorial artwork. Photo of Gilligan Wood's art supplied by Nayland College Visual Arts.

Gilligan Wood's statement about his artwork is as follows:

"After being forced by her parents to go on an adventure camp, Jodie thinks her summer is about to be over before it has even begun. But when she and her two friends Mark and Herb stumble across a strange floating rock covered in mysterious symbols in the middle of the forest she is thrown into a summer of adventure and action. Some of my inspiration has been from reading other graphic novels such as the Amulet series by Kazu Kibuishi and the Ghostopolis book by Doug TenNapel. I find the sense of adventure and intrigue that these graphic novels invoke to be very appealing and I want to emulate that in my work."

(More art from Nayland College Visual Arts is at the end of the article.)

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The Visual Arts Department at Nayland College fosters students' artistic experimentation, expression, and identity development, encouraging them to explore various aspects of art, including identity, culture, ethnicity, ideas, feelings, moods, beliefs, political views, and personal perspectives, as demonstrated by their impressive displayed artwork.

The ‘An Adventure in Art’ event included the Stoke Seniors Art Exhibition, treating the public to a wealth of beautiful artwork available for purchase. As seniors and other attendees savoured their art, they also indulged in a cuppa, creating a delightful atmosphere of appreciation and enjoyment.

The Drama Group ‘Acting Up’ took part, a little drama group that does skits and improvisations. It was an interesting mixed performance of comedy sketches and with great laughter enjoyed with a great cuppa.

'Acting Up' Seniors. Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

The exhibition broadened its scope to an exquisite solo exhibition by 'Vaughan Scott Images,' showing off a body of photographic work from travels in Uganda and Kenya. There were about 50 people who came to the solo exhibition and it was really amazing.

Vaughan Scott Images exhibition. Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

A very proud Vaughan Scott with one of his photos from his Africa's Child exhibition. Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

'An Adventure in Art' exhibition extended its embrace to different art forms, including screen printing, weaving, floral art, and even cake decoration. Interactive sessions, dubbed 'open studios,' allowed visitors to engage firsthand with the creative clubs, fostering connections and enticing new members to join. Just about all groups gained new members.

The 'Isle Floral Circle' hosted an open studio event with captivating floral art demonstrations and stunning installations, where a passionate group of artists transform flowers, plant materials, leaves, sticks, and an array of natural elements into imaginative designs. The group fosters a communal spirit of sharing expertise and enthusiasm for all things botanical. Karen Scott, praised the event for showcasing vibrant floral artistry, drawing in admirers and enthusiasts.

The Isel Floral Circle showed off their beautiful floral art. Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

Several open studios were hosted as part of the 'New Zealand Textile Experiences' event. Judith Ritchie led a hands-on screen printing session, adding a splash of fun to fabric printing. Karuna Peralta showcased her beautiful looms, inviting participants to experiment with weaving using vibrant yarns. Colleen Plank wowed the audience with contemporary felt-making techniques, while Maggy Johnston imparted knowledge on crafting small contemporary sculptures using repurposed materials and simple craft skills.

NZ Textile Experiences - Karen Peralta showcased her colourful weaving. Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

NZ Textile Experiences - Maggy Johnston crafting contemporary sculptures. Photo supplied by Karen Scott

The 'Nelson Embroiderers Guild' opened their studio, showcasing members' intricate embroidery works and offering the chance to observe this delicate art form in action. Meanwhile, the 'Nelson Cake Decorators and Sugar Art' members hosted two public workshops, providing insights into the art of cake decorating and sugar artistry. Finally, the 'Nelson Quilters' displayed samples of their traditional quilting art and invited visitors to try their hand at the sewing machines.

Nelson Embroiderers Guild showing their delicate embroidery work. Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

The Nelson Quilters display with handy tips being discussed. Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

The ‘Jane Pascoe Movement’ Dancers presented a splendid preview of their 2023 show ‘Dancing through the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.’ Jane Pascoe said, “the young dancers performing at the Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre's ‘Adventure in Art’ was the perfect time for the dancers to prepare for their three sell out performances, at the Theatre Royal, the following week.”

Jane Pascoe Movement Dancers previewing their 2023 show 'Dancing through the 50's, 60's and 70's.' Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

The event also featured thought-provoking films presented by Karen Scott and her husband Vaughan Scott who organised the 'Top of the South Filmmakers' contribution ‘Flicks on Friday,’ adding a cinematic touch to the artistic journey. Karen Scott said, “We screened ten short films from the 2021 and 2022 Film Festival at the Suter Theatre.” A list of the films shown is below.

The house was full for the ‘Flicks on Friday’ and there are active people who would like to become involved in the filmmakers society. If anyone wants to know more about the Top of the South Filmmakers you may contact them here: secretary@tsfilmmakers.org.nz

As the final notes of the Nelson Youth Choir resonated through the Greenmeadows Centre on Sunday, August 20, the event drew to a close. Gareth Cashin, the Centre Manager, reflecting on the event's resounding success, acknowledged the incredible talent within Stoke and hinted at the possibility of its return.

The Nelson Youth Choir sang splendidly on the final day resonating through the Greenmeadows Centre. Photo supplied by Karen Scott.

“There has been overwhelming support and feedback from the participating groups and from the event visitors. In relation to repeating the event next year we have to look at the huge amount of work in creating and presenting the event, which we will consider together with the feedback from all the groups who took part,” Gareth Cashin, co-organiser said.

Karen Scott, co-organiser concluded, "Incredible talent resides in Stoke alone. I believe we will continue this journey next year, learning from the feedback and enhancing our efforts to make it even more exceptional. Despite a little rain, the event was a resounding success.”

As curtains fell on 'An Adventure in Art' 2023, the Greenmeadows Centre stood as a testament to the power of art in uniting communities and kindling creative sparks. The event's triumphs are bound to resonate beyond its culmination, leaving an indelible mark on the Stoke community's artistic landscape.

FURTHER ARTWORK FROM NAYLAND COLLEGE STUDENT VISUAL ARTS THAT WERE ON DISPLAY AT 'AN ADVENTURE IN ART'