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Art That Needs You

24 February – 3 June

Kereama Taepa, Seconds (2017). Photo: Courtesy of the artist.

When we think about the role art plays in our lives we only consider the meaning and emotional connection we have with each artwork we encounter.

There is a sense that these works have been created for us to enjoy or react to, but often our role in this relationship is passive and understated; a personal experience to be considered in a quiet, softly lit space.

What would happen if this was turned on its head and the work did not even take on its true form without our input. 

Art That Needs You is a collection of works that literally ‘need you’ in order to fulfil their destiny.

Super Nature, Weaving Forest (2011). Photo: Courtesy of the artists.

Each of the 10 projects in this exhibition can only come alive through your activation and engagement. Whether it is through your physical movement, technological manipulation, intellectual encounters or a combination of all three - these artworks cannot exist without you.

Don’t be fooled however, as this is not a theme park of art. Each of the works explore themes that are unique and thought-provoking.

They are as diverse as the role nature should play in our lives, a re-working of indigenous representation and colonial histories, the impact of social media on collective subconscious, the place objects have in our social interactions and how sensory experience can impact our mood and feelings.

Featuring works by Super Nature Design (China), Tiffany Singh (NZ), Hannah & Aaron Beehre (NZ), Tāne Mā (NZ), Suzanne Tamaki (NZ), Scott Brown (NZ), Kereama Taepa (NZ), CEKS (NZ/Singapore), Ace Firers (NZ) and collective Nā ‘Anae Mahiki (Hawaii).

Principal Exhibition Partner: 

 

 


Photo top: Hannah Beehre, Aaron Beehre, Postcard to Dr Jacoby (2010). Photo: Courtesy of the artists. 

 

Principal Funder

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