Although there have been many paintings of the Waikato river, a focused review has yet to be compiled. Until now.

Although this is our 44th exhibition of original art. Although there have been many paintings of the Waikato river, a focused review has yet to be compiled. Until now. 

We do not need to look too far to see how the art masters have represented rivers.* Monet, obsessed with reflections in water, did a whole series on the Thames, as shown in a 2017 exhibition at Tate Britain.  

British artists, Turner and Constable respectively used the rivers Thames and Stour to project atmosphere and social commentary. Vincent van Gogh’s also painted his Starry Night interpretation as, Starry Night over the Rhone.  New Zealand artist Douglas Badcock as part of his landscape studies included rugged river compositions such as his 1974, Above the Rapids. 

Curated exhibitions on rivers are less evident. What do artists see, what should we know about landscapes and the fabric of life? What insights and winding narratives might be gleaned from an exhibition designed to unlock the secrets of the Waikato River? 

​In twenty-five compositions, the artists in this exhibition have employed every form of art expression and interpretation, equally coving the length and breadth of the Waikato river, source to mouth. 

Vantage points to view, include: flying over, driving over, swimming in, rowing, sailing, cultural heritage, seasonal ambience and finally, geographical context.

 Even a cursory review of this exhibition demonstrates how the river has a formative influence over many aspects of our lives. Surely, encountered, embraced, admired and deeply respected. Our River.