Hub Talk

What makes galleries special?

Public art galleries are an accessible way for everybody to experience and learn about a wide variety of art and artists. Galleries can be inspiring, challenging and informative. I grew up in Christchurch and like so many people, I hold fond memories of treasured works being on permanent display in public art galleries. I can still visualise classics such as Van der Velden’s Otira in the McDougall Art Gallery.

What do you have planned for the new gallery space?

We have exhibitions from Marlborough’s public art collection as well as touring exhibitions such as Rita Angus: New Zealand Modernist an exhibition developed and toured by Te Papa Tongarewa planned. Our first exhibition is curated by me and Dr Peter Meihana, Threads of Whātonga, which brings together historical and contemporary art. The art works are from the gallery’s permanent collection and includes works from mana whenua exhibitions held at the gallery to mark significant events such as Treaty of Waitangi settlements and Tuia 250. This exhibition acknowledges the relationships, stories and experiences of the past, as we make our next steps into the future.

What do you love about the new gallery?

As the gallery is purpose-built, we were able to include everything we needed – optimum exhibition display, ideal collection storage, and flexible and welcoming public programmes spaces. The architects have designed a stunning art gallery for our region and visitors that is also very practical; and sharing spaces with the library brings many new opportunities. The gold entrance is one of the most impressive aspects of the design and it has a beautiful central staircase/ elevated seating area lit by a huge skylight.

What's your favourite artwork and why?

I love seeing works that are considered national treasures being hosted in various locations. One of these works is Ralph Hotere’s Black Phoenix made from the charred remains of a fishing boat, which I saw in Dunedin and Christchurch as part of the Hotere survey exhibition, Ātete. It’s a tremendously moving and confronting work which strongly embodies the retelling of the origins of his iwi, Te Aupōuri.

What makes libraries special?

Libraries have become community hubs. They are accepting and supportive of all individuals regardless of age, ability, culture or personal circumstance. Libraries offer opportunities for learning, discovering and sharing ideas. They are open to everyone and are a safe place for the socially-isolated to feel included and part of society. They assist with digital literacy including connecting people to government agencies through technology. Marlborough Libraries hosts a variety of groups including Fiero coding clubs, Sunday Lego building, Justice of the Peace services, genealogy sessions with the family history group, book clubs, Knit and Natter, book-a-librarian sessions with library staff, one-on-one digital help sessions and so much more.

How have libraries changed?

Traditionally libraries were considered to be primarily book depositories. They now provide flexible, vibrant, multi-purpose spaces with greater opportunities for engagement with the communities they serve. They provide a wide range of resources both physical and digital. Physical collections include electronic drum kits, ukuleles, programmable toys, Kobos, walkie talkies etc. Digital resources include access to eAudiobook and eBooks as well as digital magazines.

What do you love about the new library?

I love the variety of spaces throughout the facility for people to sit in comfortable seating taking in the architecture and the surroundings. The collection is well laid out with room to move between the shelving units that promote the collections. Colocating with the Marlborough Gallery will provide visitors with opportunities to view an exhibition, attend a programme, exchange their library books / resources, and/or purchase a drink and something to eat from the CBD Café. Meeting rooms with builtin technology can be hired out of hours supporting groups in our community that need meeting spaces.

What's your favourite book and why?

I’ve always enjoyed a good thriller/mystery/ suspense novel. My favourite authors are P. D. James, Ann Cleeves, Patricia Cornwell, Mary Higgins Clark – a mixture of English and American writers. I enjoy something that keeps you guessing to the very last page!