New exhibition promotes harmonious relations

11th March 2010

‘BORDER Crossing,’ a new exhibition at Hawera’s Lysaght Watt Gallery was officially opened on Tuesday, March 2 by Race Relations Commissioner, Joris de Bres.  Curated by Michaela Stoneman and Libby Sharpe from South Taranaki District Council, this showcase of work by Whanganui artists is part of the New Zealand Diversity Action Programme, run by the Human Rights Commission during March.Mr de Bres spoke to the audience about the invisible borders that separate us from one another and the need for us to work together to promote understanding and harmonious relationships.
“It was a pleasure to host Joris in Hawera for the opening of this exhibition of diverse artwork,” Michaela Stoneman said.
“The artists were all impressed with the extended and renovated gallery, and werehappy to have the opportunity to show their work to a South Taranaki audience.”The exhibition runs until April 3 and coincides with a community celebration for Race Relations Day on Friday, March 19 from 12noon - 2pm.Come along to the Hawera Town Square to enjoy lunch from one of the various food stalls from around the world and enjoy dance performances by ethnic groups from around Taranaki. All welcome!Artists exibiting include, Peter Ireland, Andrea Gardner, Prakesh Patel, Paul Rayner, Catherine Macdonald, Mark Rayner, Paul Maseyk, Lisa Mareikura, Rita Dibert, Dale Hudson and Erin McNamara.