This group show is a celebration of the mahi of 14 local Maori artists making Maori art. The show has been run in Eastside Gallery annually (with some pandemic-interruptions) for over 20 years and takes place across Matariki.

The name literally refers to young spiders leaving the web and metaphorically refers to the way newer artists are nurtured in their developing art practice by those who are more experienced. In this way, it’s a branching dome of support like a spider’s web. This show, therefore, includes the mahi of both new and senior artists.

Alter is an exhibition of art by young men who have experienced adversity through their lives and are receiving support through Waipuna and Tūmanako Trust. The name Alter represents the small but significant steps these young men take every day to heal and change the trajectory of their lives. Abstract art is a safe space to let go of control, it allows these young men to explore the idea of play, have experiences some missed out on as children, and start a process of healing.

A show for artists with a moderate amount of exhibition experience. It forms part of what we call our “progressive pathway” of exhibitions, which is designed to offer exhibition opportunities as artists develop. “Stride by Stride” sits between “First Steps” and “Eastside Spring.” 18 local artists will take part this year.

Artists include: Lara Pomroy, Katrina McGettigan, Siobhan O’Brien, Angela Laby, Annika Maenpaa, Bryony Bedggood, Karyn Davis, Roseanne Jones, Zachery Hawkins, Deborah Moor, Di Tanner, Amy Couling, Karin Lange, Masako Fisher, Anne Harte, Catherine Brougham, Jo Seizova and Penny Wright.