An invitation to an exhibition of paintings selected by Dr Carole Shepheard for the Waikato Society of Arts
A GLIMPSE OF ABSTRACTION
Understanding abstraction in art is to accept there are many pathways to navigate, and
abstract painting has powerful limitations at the same time as immense freedom. It is a
multi-faceted genre that has no specific form or shared vision but more an emphasis on a
different way of ‘seeing’. While this reinforces the notion that painting is not solely
about representation, it is not a closed, restrictive art movement. It is a place where many
artists venture into territory that often begins with a ‘loose’ idea or feeling that they
then allow to develop, change or morph, however it might also be a formal arrangement of
symbolic visual elements that require a predetermined structure or methodology. Abstract
painting wants us to be with it longer that representational mahi and hopes that meaning is
released piece by piece over time. It demands slow contemplation, silence and a willingness
to accept the mental, psychological, and emotional aspects of the field.
“You don’t make the painting — the painting makes you…”. Jim Harrison
Opening Saturday 13 June at 1pm
Exhibition: 13 June – 6 July 2026
Panel discussion 13 June 2026 at 3pm. This will be run by Dr. Carole Shepheard along with four artists from the exhibition