Happenings in October and November
Kia ora
Since opening the Nursery for spring we have had a run of atrocious weather on Fridays! However, that hasn’t deterred our loyal volunteers with between 15 and 20 hardy people coming to help out. Wet weather however, is not ideal as there are so many jobs to be done outside, but as much as possible is brought into the education centre, like weeding pots! There are a few signs of spring nevertheless – native Clematis is flowering beautifully and a few days ago a pair of paradise ducks and their ducklings walked right through the nursery and on to our pond! We are hoping that better weather arrives on a Friday soon!
In the meantime there are a number of exciting events coming up that you may be interested in. First off the block is a magnificent art exhibition by Jo Ogier at the Eastern Southland Gallery at Gore. We know, because we have seen it evolving over the last few years and the amount of work Jo has put into it is astounding and the quality of the work amazing. You don’t need to take my word for it – go and see it for yourself – the exhibition will run from 6 October to 16 February, with an artist talk by Jo on Sunday 6 October, more details here
On Tuesday 8 October Forest and Bird brings you a talk by Jo Hiscock a talk on Pitcairn Island, all welcome – details here.
On Saturday 16 November the annual SERN Field Trip – Along the Mataura - https://www.sern.org.nz/events/2024-sern-spring-field-trip-hear-the-vision-and-help-make-it-happen/. Booking needed for free bus.
Chris
A little bit more about the Jo Ogier exhibition by Marcella Geddes of the Eastern Southland Gallery
Jo Ogier Art Exhibition – He Wai Apakura – Te Ara Pounamu The River’s Lament – A Pathway of Treasures
This exhibition of paintings by prominent botanical and wildlife artist Jo Ogier has come about as result of a long-term research partnership between the Hokonui Rῡnanga and Eastern Southland Gallery. Jo has spent considerable time in the Gore area and has undertaken several exhibition and workshop projects with the Eastern Southland Gallery.
In recent years she has formulated an exhibition proposal which has been supported by the environmental team at Hokonui Rῡnanga. Research into the plant species specific to our well known mahika kai sites has been augmented by field trips with rῡnanga staff to look at the existing habitat of freshwater, bird and insect species. This work has culminated in the production of 26 major artworks that collectively link the natural habitats of our indigenous flora and fauna with archive-based information sourced through oral histories gathered from key kaumātua and other experts such as Brian Rance, Eric Edwards and Daniel Jack. The featured artworks not only explore the many species of flora and fauna that once defined Māruawai and the wider Mataura River Valley, but also incorporate their early names and associated locations.
During October and November, we are offering a range of school activities, programmes and adult workshops, led by well-known artists Jo Ogier, Janet de Wagt and Jacqueline Byars. These workshops are kindly supported by: Hokonui Rῡnanga, Gore District Council, Creative Communities NZ and Community Trust South. School visits and group tours of the exhibition can also be arranged with the Gallery. Group bookings essential.
Marcella Geddes
Eastern Southland Gallery, Gore
Posted: 2 October 2024