New Gallery Launches in Wellington with Community-Created Exhibition

The Te Huarewa Toi, a new gallery space at Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui, opened its doors over the weekend in Wellington. The inaugural exhibition, titled Rau Whārangi – Leaves of Pōneke, showcases the collaborative efforts of artist and science communicator Dr Gabby O’Connor and over 1,000 residents from the Wellington community. This exhibition aims to explore the ecological history of the area and runs until June 14, 2024.

Dr O’Connor engaged with the local population to uncover the region’s rich natural heritage. She noted that New Zealand, or Aotearoa, was once predominantly forested, with approximately 80% of the land covered in trees. Through her research, she discovered that the coastal forests of Wellington once met the sea, with significant portions of vegetation removed from the hills and suburbs, save for a few remnants in the Botanic Garden and surrounding areas.

The exhibition uniquely reflects a community-driven approach, allowing participants to connect with their environment while expressing their creativity. Dr O’Connor highlighted the impact of the community art-making workshops that took place prior to the gallery’s reopening. These workshops were designed to foster excitement around the library and encourage local residents to contribute their creative expressions to the exhibition. “Together we can accomplish a lot, and it is important to celebrate that,” she stated.

Collaboration with mana whenua and scientists played a crucial role in shaping the exhibition. Dr O’Connor acknowledged her limited knowledge of native plants, having grown up in Australia. She emphasized the importance of indigenous knowledge, stating, “It was important to prioritise te taiao expertise from mana whenua and for that to drive the decision-making about what plants and stories to include and why.”

Accessibility was a key consideration in the design of the workshops, aimed at breaking down barriers that often prevent people from engaging with the arts. Dr O’Connor expressed her desire for every participant to find joy in the creative process, regardless of their perceived artistic abilities. “The creative activity allows participants to sit with the new knowledge and have fun, too,” she explained.

The exhibition features a striking collage that spans two walls, accompanied by a digital slideshow showcasing every contribution. Dr O’Connor hopes visitors will feel a sense of pride and excitement upon seeing their work displayed. “I am hoping for proud and excited as a response,” she said, inviting attendees to engage in a game of eye-spy to locate their contributions within the artwork.

In a light-hearted moment, Dr O’Connor shared a personal anecdote, revealing that she once attempted to join the circus at age 18 but ultimately chose to pursue a path in art. “I wouldn’t be here now,” she reflected, highlighting the unexpected turns that shape our journeys.

The opening of Te Huarewa Toi and the Rau Whārangi exhibition represents not just a celebration of art but also a significant step in reconnecting the community with its ecological roots.