Join us on Sunday, 18 August, from 11 AM to 1 PM for the opening of the exhibition of Morrinsville based artist Bernadette Ballantyne, “Pop of Pastel”

Join us on Sunday, 18 August, from 11 AM to 1 PM for the opening of the exhibition of Morrinsville based artist Bernadette Ballantyne, “Pop of Pastel”.

• Get ready to immerse yourself in a weekend of art, wonder, and joy with your family and friends at the Morrinsville Gallery!\
• Free entry for our community! Donations are very welcome.
• Discover a diverse range of our local artists in Matamata-Piako District and Waikato!

16 – 25 August 2024, Community Gallery, Morrinsville Gallery.

Bernadette Ballantyne reflects on her art journey: “Over the past two years, my journey with soft pastels has been one of exploration, refinement, and deepening connection to the subjects I portray. This exhibition is a celebration of that journey—a culmination of countless hours spent honing my technique and sharpening my eye for detail.

In each piece, whether capturing the soulful gaze of a beloved pet, the delicate intricacies of native fauna, or the unique expressions of individuals, I strive to create photorealistic works that resonate with the viewer. My goal has been to bring to life not just an image, but the very essence of the subject, evoking an emotional response that goes beyond the visual.

Soft pastels, with their vibrant colours and delicate textures, have allowed me to push the boundaries of realism, capturing moments of life with a richness and depth that speak to the beauty of our natural world. This exhibition marks a milestone in my artistic evolution, and I am excited to share these works, which represent not only my growth as an artist but also my deep appreciation for the subjects that inspire me”.

About Bernadette Ballantyne

Bernadette graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in 2005, the same year she was honoured with the New Zealand Emerging Artist of the Year award. Following this early recognition, she pursued a teaching diploma and spent 13 years inspiring young minds as a primary school teacher while continuing to create art on the side.

Throughout her teaching career, Bernadette’s art maintained a strong focus on nature, often depicting the beauty of trees, New Zealand birds, and the natural world. In 2022, she made the bold decision to resign from teaching and devote herself fully to her artistic passion.

Since then, she has established a predominantly commission-based career, specialising in pet and people portraits. Her work, characterised by a deep attention to detail and a photorealistic style, has continued to evolve, capturing not just the likeness but the essence of her subjects.

About Morrinsville Gallery

The Morrinsville Art Gallery Charitable Trust is the leading art gallery in the Matamata-Piako District. We work to create a vibrant environment for all locals and visitors to Morrinsville and the Mighty Waikato Region. As a charitable trust run by one staff member and thirty-three volunteers, we create many opportunities for our community to connect within an art context.

We are committed to supporting local and national artists. With a diverse programme of exhibitions and events, we aim to inspire and engage our community with the transformative power of art.

Morrinsville is a vibrant and creative hub for art and culture in Waikato, and we are immensely proud to be part of it.

Please, contact us to discuss your upcoming exhibition or collaborative project at info@morrinsvillegallery.org.nz