Eade Gallery in Clyde celebrates diverse and innovative works by Central Otago artists and is hosting three separate exhibitions over the summer.

The first is a Small Works exhibition in January where artists have been invited to display a piece of work no larger than 400mm x 400mm. The innovative idea is something owners Melanie and Rex Eade have been planning for some time.

“It’s exciting to see what can be expressed in this limited frame space and there will be some intriguing works under the theme, Central Summer Memories,” says Melanie. “These smaller works offer more affordability from some very well-known artists, which is a bonus for people starting an art collection or on a limited budget.”

In February, the gallery will host a solo exhibition by Alexandra artist Richard Parsons and in March works by Roxburgh artist Sheena Lassen.

Melanie says the gallery is always featuring something new.

“The recent installation of a customised art storage unit from Australia has increased the number of works available in the gallery. We have also introduced in-house professional framing services including archival framing work with a diverse range of frames to choose from to suit all types of artwork, mirrors, posters, craftwork and photographs.”

Central Summer Memories  January 1-January 30 

This exhibition is a collection of small works which includes painting, photography, ceramics and jewellery. It offers an opportunity to purchase affordable, original works by well-known artists for those on a small budget or with limited wall space. A great start to collecting New Zealand artworks.

Richard Parsons Solo Exhibition – February 2 – February 27

Award-winning artist Richard Parsons spends his days as a farmer in Central Otago’s Waikerikeri Valley where he and his wife have farmed beef and sheep for the past 32 years.

The rural setting inspires his largescale oil on canvas works that have been well recognised.

“I started with art classes at the local high school around 25 years ago. Some of my early works were entered into the annual Alexandra Blossom Festival Art Exhibition gaining merit, and that has continued with first place in 2014 and second place in 2008 and 2009 respectively.”

Richard’s oil on canvas works do not have glaze applied, which he says enable the paintings to change and be affected by natural light when viewed.

“My work is predominantly landscapes of the West Coast, Main Divide, and Central Otago. The theme for the Eade Gallery exhibition is slightly stylised and focuses on colour and panorama with a timeless feel. There are no human made objects or buildings in these paintings.”

He hopes his South Island subject line resonates with the audience.

“Our wild and beautiful South Island, with its dramatic landscapes is unique to the world and I endeavor to bring out the colours and subtle lights to create a special atmosphere in these paintings.”

Sheena Lassen Solo Exhibition – February 29-March 26

Sheena Lassen’s representational landscape paintings of the South Island’s rugged hills and mountains have attracted a strong following for her distinctive style.

Originally from Christchurch, Sheena has lived in several rural spots around New Zealand before settling in Roxburgh in 2014.

“I have been interested in art for as long as I can remember and have been trying to make a living from it for the last 30 years. It’s something I enjoy doing and sharing with people.”

Sheena’s work has been part of several group exhibitions throughout New Zealand and also some solo shows. She won first prize in the annual Alexandra Blossom Festival Exhibition in 2016 with her piece entitled Central Otago Landscape.

“My overall artistic direction is of the New Zealand landscape and especially the South Island high country. There is a focus in my work on the effect changing light has on the land and the way it emphasises the underlying abstract forms and patterns.”

Sheena’s solo exhibition at the Eade Gallery will be a collection of oils painted in a realist, slightly surreal style.

“The body of this work has been inspired by the Central Otago landscape that surrounds us. I hope people who come to see the exhibition will appreciate the beautiful world we live in here.”