It’s the biggest event of its kind in the region; the Tauranga Society of Artists’ Art Expo is underway and expected to attract hundreds of collectors and enthusiasts over the next three days.

“People are blown away by the standard of work this time,” says exhibition coordinator Diana Roband. “We have 109 artists exhibiting 660 original artworks.”

From water colour to mixed media and from pewter to oils, the variety of art on display in Tauranga Boys’ College gymnasium is impressive.

“This year’s expo builds on the success of previous events, promising a vibrant display of artistic excellence across a wide range of genres and mediums,” says Diana.

The Jensen Supreme Art Award was presented at a gala on Wednesday evening. The overall winner, Sue MacDougall, was awarded $1000 for a painting in acrylics called ‘Delighted to Meet You’ that was inspired by spring flowers in her garden. 

Floral art at the Art Expo.

Tauranga Floral Art members are guest exhibitors with arrangements designed to complement the work of the Tauranga Society of Artists. One highlight for attendees is to get the opportunity to talk to the artists as they work.

“Kids ask the best questions,” laughs Jenny Moed-Korpela, who travelled from Whakatane for the event. She’s using water colours in her paintings of birds that balance both realism and abstraction while next to her, Stella Forsyth uses oil-based coloured pencils to draw a picture of her dog.

“A lot of people ask about the process and what we’re doing,” she says. “I’ve done a lot of teaching so I’m used to speaking to the public. I don’t say I’m the best artist but people can ask me questions and I can answer them.”

The Art Expo also includes fine art prints, cards, the People’s Choice Award and ‘tiny art’ that’s been popular at past events.

Artist Shirley Marriott has been painting for less than two years and is showing her work for the second time this year. She was surprised and delighted to win an award in April for her first oil painting.

“I’m so inspired by the other artists in the society,” she says. “I’m a beginner so you need people around you to give encouragement. As far as art goes, the Art Expo is amazing and really puts Tauranga on the map.”

Artist Stella Forsyth works with oil-based coloured pencils.

For more information; www.taurangaart.com

Art Expo at Tauranga Boys’ College Gymnasium, open 9am-5pm Friday, Saturday and on Sunday 9am-3pm. Entry by gold coin donation.