Visit the Headland Sculpture on the Gulf Outdoor Exhibition Waiheke Island, New Zealand
WHAT IS HEADLAND SCULPTURE ON THE GULF?
This event has become the most prominent outdoor sculpture exhibition event since it was established in 2003 by the Waiheke Community Art Gallery. This event happens every two years and it features large scale sculptures displayed along a two kilometre coastal walkway along Matiatia Bay.
Waiheke Island is only a 35 minute ferry ride from Auckland and it is completely free to walk the coastal path, making this sculptural exhibition a great budget option for a day trip from Auckland. At the end of the walk you will find yourself in gorgeous Matiatia Bay, where you can visit an art gallery with additional works and maquettes.
The walk is mostly flat with only a few uphill sections with steps, so it is quite manageable for all fitness levels although not suitable for buggies. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring along water and sunscreen. Since many of the sculptures are interactive and encourage touching and exploring, this can be a great activity to enjoy with children.
The event has become a popular attraction and more than 55,000 people attended the previous showcase in 2015. This exciting cultural event makes a huge impact on Waiheke tourism. The 2017 edition of the Headland Sculpture on the Gulf will take place from the 27th of January to the 19th of February.
A GREAT RANGE OF TALENTED ARTISTS
The 2017 line up for this artistic event includes some well-known names such as Gregor Kregar, Phil Price and Virginia King. The exhibition will also debut work from new artists such as Dane Mitchell, Tiffany Singh and Maureen Lander. Other artists whose work will be on display include Shannon Novak, Veronica Herber, Jon Hall, Ioane Ioane, David McCracken, Brett Graham, Jeff Thomson, Matt Ellwood, Paul Cullen, Natalie Guy and Chris Booth.
The collection is quite diverse and includes a lot of different approaches to the art of sculpture. Many of the submissions engage with the natural world in ways that make commentary on our culture. Other sculptures include found objects and recycled material, transforming it into something new. Some of the sculptures involve the viewer in interesting ways and encourage movement and interaction.
Zara Stanhope, Headland Sculpture on the Gulf Director of Cultural Programmes, explained in a related press release that these sculpture works engage directly with the public in innovative way. “Overall the works proposed by these artists will offer a platform for a deeper understanding of what sculpture and art is today,” she said.
Zara explains that the works on display this year are more exciting and groundbreaking than ever before. “Artists have been adventurous and ambitious in their proposals.” she explains. “We are fully confident our artists will more than fulfil the brief of the event.”
HAND-PICKED CULTURAL TREASURES
Only 34 pieces are selected for this artistic exhibition and the choices go through a rigorous selection process. The initial lot of 250 proposals is narrowed down in order to select the very best reflections of New Zealand culture.
The selection committee and the board of directors are passionate and devoted to excellence in the arts. Without their dedication and the support of the large team of volunteers this self-funded event would not be possible.
These sculptures are carefully placed with consideration to how they interact with their surroundings. They are made from a wide range of materials, from stone to timber to glass to marble. They become a part of their outdoor setting – glass and polished metal reflect the sky and the wind whistles through cracks and curves in the structures. Some of the sculptures are to be observed without touching, but others encourage you to touch and interact with them.
Walking along the coastal pathway and viewing the sculptures combines the best elements of Waiheke Island’s natural beauty and its cultural wealth. It is an illuminating experience for all the senses and a great option for a sunny day trip from Auckland.
ENTER TO WIN – HEADLAND SCULPTURE ON THE GULF & WINE TOUR
We are excited to announce the launch of our Headlands Sculpture on the Gulf and Wine Tour. Enter our contest to win a free tour and enjoy this fantastic day out filled with gorgeous scenery and delicious wine. The winner will receive a Headlands Sculpture on the Gulf & Wine Tour for 2, a shared platter for 2 and return ferry for 2.
The tour includes pickup and drop off at your Waiheke accommodation or at the ferry and transport in a comfortable, air conditioned mini-bus. Your friendly local guide will give you commentary the entire way, so that you can learn about the history of the island and the rich wine tradition here.
You will enjoy both art and wine together as you tour the Headland outdoor sculpture exhibition as well as attend wine tasting at local vineyards. You’ll also have the chance to treat yourself to some bottles of wine to bring home with you – so that you can continue to savour the flavours of Waiheke.
To qualify to win, please Like and Share this post. Also, entrants must read this article and find the answer to the following question:
How many art proposals were there in the initial lot of submissions?
Put your answer in a comment on this post with the answer and the hashtag #HSOTG2017 !to be entered into the competition!
Wine and sculpture are the perfect pairing and this wonderful trip is a treat for the mind and the tastebuds. To learn more information about this fantastic tour, please feel free to contact us today.
Draw will be done on our Facebook page on Valentines Day, 13th February 2017. So make sure you follow the page so you don’t miss out!