Marlborough Art Society

Marlborough Gallery The Marlborough Gallery, situated at 204 High Street, Blenheim (map), is an integral part of the Marlborough Art Society Inc.

The Marlborough Art Society was founded in 1967 by a small group of like- minded hobby artists. The members held regular exhibitions of their work and as the group grew so also did the need for larger premises. In 1998 following an intensive fund raising project, the present premises at 204 High Street became the permanent, debt-free home of the Marlborough Art Society and the newly created Marlborough Gallery.

The building houses a large studio area, library, kitchen facilities and the adjoining Marlborough Gallery. A large private car park provides ample off street parking.

The current membership stands at over 300 members, a large percentage of whom are practising artists.

The aims of the Society are to promote the creative arts by providing opportunities for education in a wide range of different media and giving opportunity for artists to display their works in regularly held exhibitions.

As part of its community outreach the Gallery has hosted several New
Zealand wide travelling exhibitions and more recently was host to the New Zealand Schizophrenia Art Awards. It also encourages local school groups to visit exhibitions with Gallery supervisors providing background information about the paintings on display.

There are two annual members' Exhibitions in autumn and August. Due to the rapid growth in artist members, entries are now limited to one per member.

The Peters Doig Marlborough Art Awards held annually in May has established itself as one of the country's prestigious art exhibitions. Now in its 7th year it attracts entries from all over New Zealand and is regarded as the high point of the Gallery's year.

Bookings for gallery space are now being accepted for 2011 - an indication,
perhaps, of its popularity and regard within the wider artistic community.

Discounted rates apply for members of the Art Society and when necessary
the Gallery also provides daily supervision of the Gallery for the duration of the exhibition.
Further details may be obtained from Jennifer Godden, the exhibitions convenor (03) 579 3967.

 


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