Opening of ‘Diverse Tranquillity’ Exhibition at FGY Art Gallery Chch

To enable the people of Christchurch to better appreciate the diverse art forms of local artists, on the 3rd November 2018, Fo Guang Yuan (FGY) Art Gallery Christchurch hosted the “Diverse Tranquillity” Multi-facet Arts Exhibition. Participating in the exhibition were five Christchurch artists Frederika Ersten, Wilson Henderson, Noeline Walker, Marie Dawson and Deanna Gracie, who expressed their artistic talents through different media. On the opening day, more than 30 people comprising friends of FGY, members of Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) South Island, and the public attended the ceremony. Among those present were artists Keith and Tricia Morant.

The five artists manage to retain elegance in traditional charm and, at the same time, inject innovativeness into their works, successfully fusing freshness with traditions. 82 year old pottery artist Frederika Ersten exhibits some of the pottery collection he created in the past 50 years. In terms of their shapes, colours and grains, Ersten’s potteries manage to maintain their traditional charm, all made possible through his resourceful creativity and vast experience. Another pottery artist, Marie Dawson, shows fine craftsmanship in her works comprised of works of varied shapes, decorated with a diversity of imprints. Contemporary Jeweller, Noeline Walker, is very energetic about her works. Her inspiration for her art jewellery comes from all around her. Her design and the choice of materials are Avant-Garde, resulting in unique creative pieces. Wilson Henderson showcases his collection of fine fabric, fashion garments, table settings and art pieces. His works are colourful with simple lines, exuding an air of retro style. Deanna Gracie uses simple oil paintings to tell the stories of a little girl.

Since the closure of Christchurch Arts Centre in 2011 due to the earthquake, artists Frederika, Marie, Noeline and Wilson have not been able to find a suitable venue to exhibit their works. After much discussion and arrangement, they finally contacted FGY Art Gallery Christchurch who gladly agreed to host the exhibition. The artists thanked the FGY Team for their effort in successfully organising the exhibition and hoped that by having a joint exhibition of different forms of arts in one venue, the exhibition will become a carnival of arts, bringing surprises and joys to the arts lovers.

At the ceremony, the participants were also treated to a tea party by FGY Art Gallery. Afterwards, the audience showed much interests in the exhibits and fielded the artists with batteries of enquiries, bestowing affirmation and confidence on them. Finally, the ceremony ended on a high note.