MASKS – Faces of Us – Pop Up Exhibition
Saturday, 16th November / TAPAC Center / Western Springs 3:30 pm – 10 pm
RITUAL- ARTISTIC ENCOUNTER is a collective of professionals, artists and organisations with the mission to engage diverse ethnic groups, new migrants, refugees and other underserved communities through art, aiming to promote social inclusiveness and cultural pride.
This year RITUAL AE invites you to dive into the captivating world of MASKS. In addition to visual artworks from local and international artists with diverse cultural backgrounds, we’re showcasing an evening filled with live traditional and contemporary performances, theatre play, educational talks, contemporary and folkloric dances, live music, and interactive virtual installations.
From ancient rituals to contemporary society, Masks have been used for various purposes throughout history, including in ceremonial, theatrical, religious, and practical contexts
helping humans transcend universal challenges and emotions.
They often serve to conceal or transform one’s appearance, allowing wearers to adopt different identities or roles. Similarly, in the modern world, the persona is the mask we wear for social conformance and approval and amidst the glitter of media profiles and the weight of societal masks the quest for authenticity becomes a profound testament to inner strength and truth.

Don’t miss this unique experience! Join us on this enchanting journey through the artistic world of masks!

Ritual – Artistic Encounters POP UP EXHIBITION
@ritual.ae.nz
FB Ritual-ArtisticEncounters
www.ritualae.nz

*****MASKS – Faces of Us – Workshops
Different locations – From 26th October to 15th November 2024
Leading up to the main event on the 16th of November, we will be also hosting a series of workshops across the city inspired by this year’s theme.
Deep dive into the MASK universe through your preferred creative medium. Choose between one to up five interactive and entertaining workshops to gain a new meaningful perspective, learn something new or have fun playing around with the theme. Each workshop will provide a different perspective about this exhibition. Get ready to connect with artists and fellow enthusiasts!
Limited capacity: reserve your now spot on: https://ritualae.nz/workshops/?utm_source=email&utm_medium_campaign=mask

Media Release 12 October 2024.

MIL OSI

If you are following Auckland’s arts, entertainment, and community events in the past couple of months; you would have noticed a new jam of a venue: “The Button Factory” – hosting a rich programme of creative expressions. Well, its all been leading to THIS one spectacle. The launch of their own “The Stage:Unbuttoned” production. They are rolling out their red Button carpet and bringing in the cream of the cream of Auckland performance arts for YOU, and you and you, and all of you!

Come along for a cosy Thursday evening filled with magic and joy. A chance to revel in performances from our talented community in a supportive and creative space. There’s something for everyone, bring your friends and experience a night of fun surprises.

+ Guitar/comedy: Ben Hudson
+ Puppetry: Nach & Robin
+ Magician: Dev Chandwani
+ Poet: Dan Goodwin
+ Guitar/singer: Jordi Wallace
+ Poet: Lee Tere
+ Singer: Miriam
+ Contemporary dance: Amber Liberte
+ Flow arts performance: Dani VR & Julia Faulkner
+ DJ: AmanDeep
+ MC: Alex Walker

The show you have been waiting for – music, dance, comedy, poetry, magic, puppetry, performance … and the best Factory vibes.

Come, make it your own !

Thursday 12 Sept, 7pm The Button Factory
2 Abbey Str, Auckland Central

For more info and tickets visitwww.thebuttonfactory.co.nz

Media Release 10 September 2024.

MIL OSI

A rich programme of artistic musical, recreational, inspirational, and performance events is lined up for the next few months to warm up the remaining of our winter days,

Dance and yoga classes in a lightfilled studio space, interactive community gatherings and talks, concerts, spectacles, acrobatic and multimedia shows, exhibitions and many more creative events.

The Button Factory offers many possibilities for the community not only to be a spectator but also to co-work and engage, rent a corner as an own art studio, hire the whole place for creating own events, display artifacts and crafts, and bring in all kinds of fresh ideas to enrich the experience of the local community.

This month and next month at The Button Factory will see exciting events with a diverse and eclectic programme.

On Sunday, August 25, there will be a session of Ecstatic Dance, a celebration of free-form movement, self-expression, and deep connection to our manawa (heart).

Thursday, August 29, is the first workshop of Speak Story Learning Lounge to help creatives find, create, and share their story, this time looking at the photography and video business for freelancers going at it alone.

On August 30 and 31, Garuda Collective will bring a weekend of kirtan-mantra, sound, breathing, spirit awakening, dance, and a specially curated dinner menu.

On Saturday, September 7, The Button Factory will host the first Manawa Hui Creative Flow/Tall Poppies Storytelling, an immersive evening of movement, improvisation, and storytelling to unleash creativity and connect with friends.

September 7-9 will be a Contact Improvisation Urban retreat,

Thursday, September 12, is the launch of a regular variety show event The Stage – Unbuttoned.

On Thursday, September 19, The Button Factory will feature a retrospective of cinematic works by Martin Sercombe, and

Sunday, September 29. is the opening of Realise Your Creativity, Create Your Reality, Anastasiya Kozyryeva art exhibition.

Media Release 25 August 2024.

MIL OSI

Local adventurer and photographer Richard Harri has captured the essence of Auckland’s coastal beauty through his passion for kayaking, culminating in a unique display of images now featured at Kāpiti at Mission Bay.

Since taking up kayaking just 18 months ago, Harri has embarked on an impressive 300 trips covering a staggering 3000 kilometres along Auckland’s eastern coastline. His daily routine begins at 3am, weather permitting, as he navigates a 12-kilometer route from St Heliers to Rangitoto to Browns Island and back, capturing breathtaking moments along the way.

“I’ve always had a love for the water and photography,” says Harri. “Kayaking allows me to combine these passions and explore the stunning vistas that Auckland has to offer.”

Harri’s dedication to his craft has resulted in a stunning collection of photographs, showcased on his website, www.richardharri.co.nz. The website features a range of prints available on acrylic, canvas, or professionally framed, offering art enthusiasts and collectors alike the opportunity to bring the beauty of New Zealand’s coastline into their homes.

In a recent collaboration, Harri has partnered with Kāpiti at Mission Bay, an iconic establishment in Mission Bay known for its commitment to quality ice cream and coffee. Steve Avery, owner of Kāpiti at Mission Bay, has graciously provided Harri with a space to exhibit 12 of his captivating canvas prints in the gallery upstairs.

“The team at Kāpiti at Mission Bay, pride ourselves on offering our customers a taste of adventure through our unique flavours and experiences,” says Avery. “Richard’s photography perfectly embodies our philosophy, capturing the essence of Auckland’s coastal charm. We are thrilled to partner with him and showcase his remarkable talent.”

Harri’s canvas prints are now on display at Kapiti Ice Cream in Mission Bay, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of Auckland’s coastal landscapes.

For more information about Richard Harri’s photography and to view his collection, visit www.richardharri.co.nz.

Media Release 6 July 2024.

MIL OSI

The humble table, a seemingly ordinary object often taken for granted, has been a source of endless fascination and inspiration for artist Ilya Volykhine. In “Table of Contents,” he explores the multi-faceted significance of this ubiquitous piece of furniture that brings people together and is woven into the fabric of human connection.

Volykhine’s paintings and works on paper are a reflection of his deep contemplation of the table and its significance in our lives. He views the table as far more than just a piece of furniture – it represents a symbol of connection, community, and tradition. It’s a space where people gather to share meals, conversations, laughter, and even moments of vulnerability. The table, in Volykhine’s view, is where our lives are woven together with others, where we can truly be ourselves and find a sense of belonging.

The ‘Table of Contents’ exhibition promises to be a captivating journey into the heart of the artist’s exploration, offering viewers an opportunity to reflect on the pivotal role the table plays in our lives. Ilya Volykhine’s works beckon us to reevaluate the overlooked beauty and significance of the ordinary, making the mundane extraordinary through his artistic vision.

We cordially invite you to join us at the opening reception of ‘Table of Contents’ and explore Ilya Volykhine’s thought-provoking art. It is an event not to be missed for art enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone who appreciates the power of art to illuminate the profound in the everyday.

Please RSVP to reserve your place at this exclusive event by emailing Ron Epskamp at ron@exhibitionsgallery.co.nz.

Event Details
Opening Date: Thursday, November 2nd
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Exhibitions Gallery of Fine Art, 20 Brandon Street, Wellington Central

Media Release 27 October 2023.

MIL OSI

Prepare to be transported on a mesmerizing journey of sound, culture, and storytelling as “Guitar Tales Across Borders” unfolds at The Titirangi Theatre on October 15, 2023. Presented by the Perfectum Events, this extraordinary musical event will feature the exceptional talents of Ismail Davids and Ricky de Medeiros.

Breaking Boundaries Through Music
Step into a world where melodies transcend continents and stories are woven through strings. ‘Guitar Tales Across Borders’ isn’t just a performance; it’s an immersive experience that bridges the gap between cultures and genres. Ismail Davids, a masterful guitarist born into diverse heritage and raised across the globe, and soulful Gypsy singer, joins forces with Ricky de Medeiros, a musical virtuoso hailing from Brazil.

A Fusion of Melodies and Narratives
Picture captivating guitar melodies infused with Spanish Flamenco, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, and Arabic rhythms. Imagine soulful vocals that traverse languages and cultures, connecting hearts with their authenticity. This is the essence of “Guitar Tales Across Borders,” a journey of musical exploration and storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Unveiling the Artists
Ricky de Medeiros effortlessly fuses Bossa Nova, classical guitar fingerstyle, Latin grooves, and flamenco techniques. His stage presence, enriched by collaborations with Latin Grammy Award Winners, creates an enchanting spectacle.
Ismail Davids, with his Spanish guitar strings and evocative voice, crafts a symphony of cultural fusion and raw emotion. His mastery spans genres, from Spanish Flamenco to Afro-Cuban rhythms, leaving an indelible mark.
“We wanted to create a show that celebrates the diversity and richness of music from different parts of the world,” says Ismail Davids. “We hope to inspire our audience with our stories and songs that reflect our passion and heritage.”
Ricky de Medeiros adds: “We are very excited to share our musical journey with the people of Auckland. We believe that music can bring people together and create harmony across borders.

A Night to Remember
As the curtains rise at The Titirangi Theatre, Auckland, on 27 September 2023, “Guitar Tales Across Borders” will come alive. Audiences will witness the interplay of melodies, stories, and artistry that transcends boundaries, echoing in hearts long after the final notes.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience a captivating musical journey that fuses cultures and harmonies.

Event Details:
Title: Guitar Tales Across Borders
Date: 27 September 2023
Time: 7.00-9pm
Venue: The Titirangi Theatre, Auckland
Tickets and Information: https://www.ismaildavids.com/events-calendar or Eventbrite

MIL OSI

Amidst challenging times, Chinese sculpture artist Yi Yang has overcome the demands of a post covid world and brings his latest exhibition of sculpture works to The Cloud over Matariki weekend. ‘We Are One’ is an awe-inspiring collection of over forty sculptures and paintings constructed of stainless steel and resin and inspired by Aotearoa New Zealand’s culture, mountains, rivers, and glaciers. Each sculpture stands at 40-50cm high and illustrates the resilience, strength, and determination of all New Zealanders as one, with simple lines and complex textures.

Yang, who is of Chinese descent, grew up surrounded by used car parts and scrap metal while his parents worked their jobs in China’s automotive industry. After digressing away from his original dream to become a well-accomplished oil painter, Yang turned to sculpture and, in 2014, famously depicted actor and film director Jackie Chan in a work named ‘Drunkie Chan’. The sculpture was inspired by the movie Drunkie Master and, like many of Yang’s other sculptures, is constructed from recycled vehicle parts. Chan is one of the most recognisable and influential film personalities globally, and Yang is honoured that he and his family were to fly to New Zealand for the grand opening of ‘We Are One’, however current Covid-19 restrictions in Shanghai are preventing them from attending. Chan has crafted a tribute to be aired on the night.

Inspiration for ‘We Are One’ was drawn from the passion Yang developed for the land, people, and culture of Aotearoa over the eleven years he’s lived here. The Maori people, in particular, with their traditional strong stature and protruding tongues, as well as the All Blacks rugby team and the Haka, are unmistakable influences on the exhibition.

Having previously experimented with mud, the finished sculptures are constructed of resin and stainless steel. The resin symbolises the purity of Aotearoa, and the stainless steel reflects the viewer, creating an instant connection with the work and symbolising strength and resilience.

The exhibition is expected to draw wide interest from the art and rugby worlds — notably the attendance of Alan Gibbs, owner of Gibbs Farm in the Kaipara Harbour. Gibbs was depicted in ‘Marshall Alan’ a magnificent four-meter high sculpture by Yang created as a tribute to Gibbs’ lifetime achievements in the wild west. Sir Richard Taylor is also pegged to attend, a longtime supporter and collector of Yang.
A number of All Blacks, both past and present, are also expected to attend the grand opening.

‘We Are One’ is a truly captivating collection of works that includes one unique design to be unveiled at the grand opening. This particular design depicts a phalanx of seven arrowheads.

They symbolise young lives nurtured by Aotearoa New Zealand, and hold a strong formation with an indisputable resonation with viewers. ‘We Are One’ is dedicated to Aotearoa and its people

Media Release on 2 June 2022

Media Contact
Diana Kerr, Giraffe Marketing
diana@giraffemarketing.co.nz
+64212940881
https://www.weareonenz.com/

MIL OSI

Born in 1967 behind the iron curtain, Volykhine spent the duration of his youth at a time when Socialist realism was the predominant aesthetic. His enigmatic compositions however employ a personal iconography of human characters, animals, and hybrids within familiar-looking but imaginary settings. They frequently incorporate references to the creative process, music, and everyday life, but ultimately eschew any fixed meaning.

The artist’s treatment of scale is deliberately arbitrary and non-perspectival, and often seems to allude to different time zones or planes of existence.

This exhibition brings together large and small format paintings in which figures are depicted against backdrops of suburban architecture or imagined interiors. While Volykhine develops each work instinctively without a preconceived idea of the finished result, there is visual coherence to the overall group of paintings on view, both in their similar palettes of strong, complementary colors as well as in recurring subjects.

The multiple storylines that characterize the large-scale works in particular, combined with their striking use of light and emphasis on the human figure and sometimes dreamlike interpretation, leave a lasting impression. Defying any traditional sense of realism while retaining a degree of plausibility, these paintings create their own distinctive stamp on
figurative art.

Volykhine’s work is held in both private and coporate collections worldwide and most recently features in the new QT Hotel Rooftop Bar in Auckland Viaduct, the new EBB Hotel in Dunedin, and in the NZ 2021 Home of the Year.

Media Release 27 May 2022.

MIL OSI

(PR.co.nz)  

Owner and Founder of the Apex Academy of Performing Arts, Harry Oram, made a big announcement this past weekend for Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty during the first Apex Academy Red Carpet Premiere held on April 10th at United Cinemas Bayfair.

The evening was set off with a red carpet complete with paparazzi and a photography exhibit by Fine Art Photographer Ryan Estremos. Guests were seated in the luxury auditorium that included a United Cinema’s chef prepared banquet table.

The showcase featured a live performance by actors Denny Kota and Sharin Shaik followed by 5 short films featuring Apex’s very own students, which was narrated by industry veteran Matthew Oram. The film screenings concluded with an extended cut of their recent 48 Hours Film Challenge submission ‘Aora’, which received several nominations in the Bay of Plenty Semi-Finals.

Several announcements were made including the ongoing partnership with United Cinemas Bayfair, represented by Manager Samantha Larsen who teamed up with Harry Oram and Apex Marketing Director Krystal Black who states “We couldn’t have asked for a better partnership. Samantha has been so open to our ideas and wants the same things for Tauranga. Having Samantha and United Cinemas join our team creates a powerhouse alliance that will bring international film to the Bay and promote local filmmakers.”

Harry also shared plans to put a world spotlight on New Zealand by relaunching the Third Culture Film Festival in Tauranga which was originally based in Hong Kong for two consecutive years. Harry has no doubt Tauranga is the perfect place to invest in filmmaking and to showcase the region’s natural beauty and creative talent.

“The film festival in Tauranga will be open to submissions from around the world and provide countless opportunities for filmmakers. International filmmakers will now have incentive to share their stories through us and more importantly bring our local talent a global audience.”

The Apex team gave a few words to a few of their supporters,

“We want to give a huge thanks to Samantha Larsen and the United Cinemas Bayfair chef and staff for the tremendous help and five star service, A2Z Print Solutions for partnering with us and providing the best quality marketing materials in the Bay on a moments notice. Anton Steele, Jade Kent, Glen Dougal, and his partner Debbie Green from Film Bay of Plenty, Jonathan Ewing from the Tombolo Times and former Mayor, Greg Brownless- thank you for showing up for our students and the Academy.”

They are currently reaching out to key strategic partners. Together they plan to put Tauranga on the International film circuit by building cultural and economic bridges through film.

Media Release 12 April 2021.

MIL OSI

(PR.co.nz) 

Avondale based music project “Street Georges” are excited to announce the releasing their Second Single “Next Lockdown (Covid Love Song)” at Auckland’s Portland Public House on Thursday 22 April 2021 with Special Guests Audio Zephyr, Claire Kendall, Ema Barton and La CoCo opening the event pending lockdown levels for Tamaki Makaurau.

Waikato born frontman Rich Beckmannflay has previously been known playing drums for most of his musical past. Rich now calls himself a recovering drummer transitioning to singer songwriter and guitarist early 2018. Inspiration for “Next Lockdown” was the observation of people going through lockdowns on their own, perhaps wishing they had made connection with a special someone before the lockdowns defined everyone’s shelter in-place default bubbles.

Next Lockdown was written during the first Lockdown in 2020, with a few rehearsal sessions that were interrupted by next lockdown alerts. Recorded live at Earwig Studios on 24 track analog tape engineered by Darren McShane. Mastering was completed February 2021 at Munki Studios by Mike Gibson during yet another lockdown, just in time for yet another lockdown leading into March 2021. Whilst trying to predict lockdown levels for a live release event, we hope there is no next lockdown!

Ngā mihi maioha, streetgeorges.com

Media Release 20 March 2020.

MIL OSI

(PR.co.nz) 

LET LINES CONVERSE

10 – 28 February 2021
Open Wed – Sun 11-3PM

The opening will be this Saturday, 13th February at 3pm at Arthaus, Orakei Bay Village, Auckland.

Ian Mac Gabham is an Auckland based artist, born in Dublin, Ireland and immigrated to New Zealand in 2013.

With and academic background in architecture, Ian began to explore the transcendental expression of abstraction without the reliance upon recognisable objective forms.

“Let Lines Converse” is a collection of hand drawings by Ian. Each line has a mood within itself and belonging to its geometric, abstract surroundings.

As the old Irish proverb goes “Is túisce deoch ná sceal” which means “a drink precedes a story”, so yes there will be wine…and nibbles provided.

Media Release 10 February 2021.

MIL OSI

Helping others find the courage to write has been a long-time goal of Rotorua writer Angie Belcher. Now, with the support of Rotorua English Language Partners, Rotorua Civic Arts Trust, Rotorua Creative Communities and the Matatuhi Foundation, her dream of running a series of creative writing workshops for migrants has come to fruition.

The project, known at To Our Shores involved teaching and mentoring groups of migrants as they negotiated the process of telling and writing their stories in poetry and prose then having selections of the writing artistically interpreted before being published as a collection.

‘Giving voice to new New Zealanders gives them the opportunity to share their stories, hopes and dreams as well as helping us understand their needs’ says Belcher.’ It provides opportunities for us to gain cultural knowledge and to develop greater empathy towards each other’.

Brazilian born graphic artist Lucia Lemos Monteiro Conceicao, a workshop participant, has been busy artistically interpret the writing as a series of bold, colourful photographic prints which portray aspects of the writing and culture shared by the individual participants.

‘Reading the poetry and studying the country helps me connect with the writer,’ says Conceicao who has found Vanuatu the most challenging to date. ‘I had never heard of this country so had to learn so much. Now, I love it!”

Known in Brazil for her artistic designs portrayed on fabric, this will be her first exhibition in New Zealand since arriving in 2018 and the first using photographic prints.

The exhibition to be held at The Rotorua Arts Village from27 March to 18 April will coincides with the launch of Mixed- a Collection of Creative Writing by Newcomers To Our Shores being published by Stromboli Press.

The book, a collection of poems and stories illustrated with the art, are as diverse as the writers themselves. Ranging from war-torn Bosnia to the frenetic pace of life in Japan, all twenty five contributors delve into creative writing to express and share the anxieties, dreams and journeys that preceded their arrival to our shores.

It is hoped that those who get the opportunity to read the words, hear stories and appreciate the art will have a greater appreciation of the migrant’s struggles, separations and successes as they negotiate both a new land and new ways of expressing their feelings.

Media Release on 18 February 2020

Media Contact
Angie Belcher
Phone: 021 024 88981
Website: www.angiebelcherwriter.com

MIL OSI