The rich and diverse talents of the northern Coromandel’s best creatives will once again be showcased in the heart of Colville with Back Room Gallery officially launching its 2019/2020 season this month.

 

The original idea for the gallery was spurred by Wayne Todd and a group of local artists who wanted to establish a platform to sell their work in Colville during the busy holiday period. Wayne has since relocated further south, however his contribution and legacy is truly appreciated by the gallery members. Through collaboration and co-operation the artists have not only succeeded in their goal, but have created an amazing hub for local creatives to engage with and support each other. By working together they have developed a real destination for tourists and art lovers to immerse themselves in authentic Coromandel art.

 

Work by around 12 artists will feature in the gallery throughout the season.The space itself, beside the iconic Colville General Store, has also had a bit of a make-over, courtesy of Colville identity and nationally recognised artist, Steve Carson. The variety of pieces on display is a reflection of the incredible range of talented artists in the area. Back again this year is Hannah White with her contemporary and unique silver handcrafted jewellery, Rebekah Pearson whose signature style art appears all over the peninsula, Nici Greulich, who can weave the un-weavable, and John Eaglen, sculptor extraordinaire and one of our valued Creative Coromandel trustees.

 

Now in its third year, the non profit, volunteer-run gallery opened its doors on December 13th with a special celebration attended by many of the contributing artists. Throughout the summer, the gallery will be open from 10am to 4pm daily with the exception of Christmas Day and Boxing Day and the season will run right through until Easter. The facebook page will have regular updates in relation to hours or special events. With the artists frequently staffing the gallery, visitors also get the opportunity to learn more about the art and its creators, and even on occasions see some of them at work.

 

Backroom Gallery is just one more reason why an increasing number of locals and visitors are lifting the lid on one of our lesser explored Coromandel gems. With the Foragers Kitchen cafe to the front and the Colville General Store to the side, as well as the nearby Himalaya Shop, the Backroom Gallery forms part of an attractive little village centre that oozes charm and offers plenty of interest away from the bustle of some of the busier tourist hubs. So much more than a spot to simply stock up on supplies, put Colville on your radar and you’ll find there is quite a bit to discover, not least of all this quirky, clever gallery that brings all that’s great about local art together under one roof. Now that is certainly worth a visit.

 

The full list of this season’s contributing artists are: Libby McColl – painting, Steve Carson – painting/sculpture/drawing, Hannah White – jewellery, Ella Osnat – photography, Denise Jones – fibre arts, Sam Ireland – pottery, Rebekah Pearson – ceramics/painting, John Eaglen – sculpture/painting, Manu Bolger – wood sculpture, Nici Greulich – weaving, Briar Van  Dort – weaving and Greg Taylor – woodwork.

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