More than 100 artists show their work

• Author: David Haxton
• Published date: 20 January 2023
• Publication title: Horowhenua Chronicle

The 14th festival, at the stunning Anam Cara Gardens, is an excellent opportunity for potters to exhibit and sell their work in a collective exhibition

It features many forms of pottery and ceramics, from domestic wares to large sculptural pieces, alongside framed artworks and works in wood, stone and steel.

“It is set it up as a fundraiser for the Ōtaki Pottery Club,” co-organiser Wendi Lindsay said.

“We invite potters and artists from all around the country. We have over 100 artists exhibiting with the majority coming from the lower North Island because they have to bring their work to the festival.”

Guest artists include Lee Robinson, from Otaki, who paints in a detailed realistic style, potter Maria Brockhill, who makes large sculptural pieces, decorative and brightly glazed, and sculptor Bruce Winter, who works in mixed media producing large outdoor sculptures.

Lindsay encouraged people to check out the festival.

“It’s just such a beautiful family-friendly event that is really relaxed and interesting. You can see so much variety in one venue. A lot of the artists are there and you can speak to them about what they’ve made and how they’ve made it.

“Anam Cara Gardens is just beautiful and lovely to stroll around. And the new expressway is fabulous too so it’s easy to get to.”

There was one question that Lindsay was regularly asked — could people take their pet dog?

“It’s a private garden so only service dogs are welcome.”

She said the club curated the indoor area with various artworks and the outdoor area saw artists set up their own display of art.

“It’s not like a market scene, it’s like an exhibition.

“We also...