Ringing True Opening Exhibition
Christchurch international artist for the “Ringing True” exhibition, Keith Morant, and his wife, pottery artist, Tricia Morant had their opening ceremony exhibition at the Fo Guang Yuan (FGY) Art Gallery Christchurch on the 12th of August, 2 pm as Keith exhibits 300 of his oil paintings and Tricia exhibits at least 20 pieces of her artwork. The exhibition was attended by VIPs such as the FGY NZ curator, Venerable Abbess Manshin, the Morant couple, Minister of Disability Issues and Supporting Greater Christchurch Regeneration, Hon. Nicky Wagner, Chairperson for the Arts Canterbury Inc., Wilson Henderson, musician Anatoly Zelinsky, Chairperson of the Waikuku Artists Incorporated, Mandy Palmer, Zen practitioner, Arthur Wells, good friends of the artist, David Fanner, Agnes White, 20 over more artists that sums up to over a hundred participants.
At the event, Anatoly expressed that he is proud and touched by the exhibition as it is the most suitable venue of Keith’s diligent work over the years. He is more than happy to perform with his violin at the FGY Art Gallery Christchurch. Wilson and Mandy gave gratitude to Keith in support of young artists and thanked the art gallery in hosting such a top quality platform. Collectors and good friends of Morant’s art, Agnes and David also gave their heartfelt blessings, and Zen practitioner Arthur Wells appreciated the invitation to the opening at FGY saying Keith's creation of the circle is compatible with the depth of Buddhist nature.
Hon. Nicky Wagner in her speech said it is a day of celebration which artworks of the Morant couple brings color and vitality to the people of Christchurch and later thanking Fo Guang Shan (FGS) and FGY Christchurch on such a beautiful occasion. Keith and Tricia thank the art gallery team for their efforts and Tricia hopes, the Morant Foundation could help and stimulate more Christchurch artists, and give everyone awareness in finding the tranquility and essence of life. Keith then explains his cause and conditions with Ch’an or Zen Buddhism, giving his soul energy in continuing his art. Curator Venerable Abbess Manshin read a page from the “Ringing True” memorabilia and the event continued with a ribbon cutting ceremony with all 8 VIPs.
Keith have also asked all participants to draw a circle on a canvas entitled “Community Canvas” giving everyone a chance to take part in his art exhibition, where he will later bring it back to work on it and present it to one of the lucky participants in a draw on the 2nd of September. The response was good where near to a hundred participants joined in. The organizers then prepared a scrumptious afternoon tea for all to enjoy.
Keith Morant’s “Ringing True” exhibition and Tricia Morant’s “Ceramica” will commence from the 12th of August until the 24th of December at the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery in Christchurch which marks the first joining exhibition for this couple that have been together for 45 years. Each art piece is unique at its finest.