Sandy Rodgers Artworks | Exhibitions & Events
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Dea; Wahine Hou – A Modern Goddess

Exhibitions Gallery, Brandon Street, Wellington
Open from 6th of August 2015.

 

An elegant and sophisticated take on the modern New Zealand woman in the roll of an ancient goddess.

Rodgers has combined the idea of European and Maori Polytheism. Insisting that we all have aspects of godliness within us.

Rodgers draws attention to what it means to be a ‘Goddess’ in the world today. The aspects of our lives for which we draw upon powers that enable us to conquer the trials and tribulations of everyday life.

Portrayed in one or her paintings we see the Roman Goddess Pax donning a pair of Converse basket ball boots, face raised to the sun in quiet and peaceful contemplation. Her name Hineputehue, the niece of Tawhirimatea (The Maori God of wind).

Each painting has been based on a short story written locally. ‘I knew what it was that I wanted to represent in the paintings , the combination of cultures Maori and Pakeha. The goddess like attributes that kiwi woman wear like a cloak, protecting and adorning them. I did however want to include another aspect of the arts and other talented people in the form of writers to add depth and authenticity to the story I wanted to represent. This way the viewer is able to emerge themselves more fully into the mythology of the exhibition.’

One story talks about internet dating and another about wars and weaponry. ‘Though the subjects are varied the fact is that many of our New Zealand women are living with and overcoming fears and challenges every day that many of us can only begin to understand. I want to pay homage to their strength and vulnerability. I want to put the kiwi woman on a pedestal for all to see and admire.’

Sandy’s work has always been research based and this body of work is no different. However, with the added delight of a contemporary myth to lighten the load and keep the exhibition whimsical and yet still challenging… it’s a definite must see!

The Deep Night: works by Sandy Rodgers

11 June – 19 July 2015
Expressions Whirinaki Arts and Entertainment Centre | Free

Wellington artist Sandy Rodgers (Ngati Raukawa and Tuwharetoa) has been creating art from a young age. Sandy gained a Diploma in Creative Arts (Honours) and spent two years learning traditional Maori arts under artist Erenora Puketapu-Hetet and her family.

Sandy tours and researches New Zealand and her delvings into history are captured in her works. Each work comprises a combination of elements from collaged images of her previous works to thick layers of smoky shellac. The works are covered in a layer of tissue which is then worked over with delicate designs and images in watercolours, inks and graphite. She has travelled extensively throughout New Zealand and in fact the world, taking her inspiration from the many museums and historical sites she has visited.

“I am endlessly inspired by the posters of our past. The messages passed on through the combination of image and text. Some of the world’s most famous artists have delved into this medium and created imagery that has stirred nations.” Sandy Rodgers

Sandy has been a full time artist for over 17 years, exhibiting throughout New Zealand, London and Spain.

Visit the Gallery website for more information

My Egg for the Whittaker’s Big Egg Hunt

About The Whittaker’s Big Egg Hunt

The eggstraordinary Whittaker’s Big Egg Hunt in support of Starship is back in New Zealand for Easter!

Following the rip-roaring success of last year’s inaugural hunt down under, 100 giant eggs created by leading and emerging New Zealand artists, designers and celebrities have been hidden in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

From 12 March to 7 April 2015, the public scrambled to the streets to hunt the stunning artworks and download the app to take part for a chance to win a grand prize; four gold Whittaker’s Wabbit necklaces designed and crafted by Partridge Jewellers.

The Big Egg Hunt concept first came about in London in 2012 to engage the public in a fun and interactive way while fundraising for charity.

Since then The Big Egg Hunt has grown to include Dublin, New York and New Zealand. It is believed to be the biggest egg hunt of its kind worldwide.

The Whittaker’s Big Egg Hunt will raised funds for the Starship Foundation, a social-profit organisation which supports the national children’s hospital to provide world-leading care for more than 120,000 patient visits each year. The eggs were auctioned off for Starship, 80 of them on Trade Me, and 20 at a gala cocktail event on 31 March. As principal sponsor, Whittaker’s was committed to contributing at least $150,000 to Starship Foundation through an on-pack promotion with its top-selling Creamy Milk block, which features a wrapper designed by a Starship patient.