Still time to be inspired by Summer Art Salon

Art enthusiasts have four more days to absorb the beauty and creativity of artworks displaying at the Summer Art Salon staged by the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple.

The exhibition opened last month with a ceremony attended by 100 people and closes this Saturday, January 11, in the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery at the temple in Flat Bush.

Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple says the Summer Art Salon theme is “illuminating creativity and inspiring minds”.

“This exhibition features an impressive collection of nearly 300 works from 51 artists, spanning a variety of mediums, including painting, resin art, sculpture, ceramic, jewellery design, photography, mosaic art, sand art, and flax weaving.

“The organising committees sincerely invite art enthusiasts to experience the unique fusion of New Zealand art and the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape.

“Let this celebration of art inspire and connect all.”

Last year’s eighth edition of the annual Art Salon, which opened in September and ran until November, “showcased the remarkable talent of 180 artists and more than 1200 spectacular artworks, setting a new scale and cultural influence record”, says the temple.

Curator, Venerable Abbess Manshin, expressed deep gratitude to the artists for their creativity, enthusiasm and dedication to revitalising the Art Salon.

“Reflecting on the immense participation this year [2024], the second session of the exhibition was elaborately arranged to fully manifest the artists’ creations and extend the enthusiasm and atmosphere the art evokes,” the temple says.

“Abbess quoted the founder of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order, Venerable Master once said that the capable people can always simplify complexity and lift weights lightly.

“The curator highlighted the tireless efforts of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery team and the participating artists, whose contributions add colour, joy and inspiration to the community.

“Abbess also shared that during the first session of the exhibition, 64 live art demonstrations were conducted, fostering rich interactions between artists and the public.”

An additional 23 live demonstrations have been or are to be held during the Summer Art Salon, “inviting enthusiasts to participate and share their creations and ideas to create an artistic atmosphere within our lives”, the temple says.

Howick Local Board member Adele White congratulated everyone involved in staging the Summer Art Salon at its opening.

“Thanks to all the seasoned artists who contributed to this special event, which conveyed the harmony and tranquillity of the multicultural intertwining within the community,” White said.

The sculptor artist, Tom Somerville, expressed his heartfelt appreciation by presenting Venerable Abbess Manshin with a bouquet of hydrangeas from his garden.

“He praised Fo Guang Shan’s breathtaking environment and applauded the art gallery team for curating and showcasing all the artists’ works elegantly and thoughtfully that transcends art,” says the temple.

“Tom remarked on the temple’s architecture and landscape as a source of inspiration, beautifully complementing the artistic creations on display.”

Diego Silva, a ceramic artist and first-time participant, shared his joy as well.

“I heard about this opportunity through an artist friend. I’m so impressed by the gallery team’s professionalism.

“I feel warmly welcomed and respected. It’s truly an honour to be a part of this event,” Silva said.