Summer art show shapes up

The 22nd Great Summer Art Exhibition will be held at the Mahurangi East Community Centre, Snells Beach, from December 30 to January 3.

More than 150 artists are expected to take part, vying for in excess of $3000 in prize money.

As in previous years, the artworks will be judged in three categories – professional, intermediate and novice – with a percentage of the proceeds going to the Mahurangi East Tennis Club.

Supporting the exhibition again this year will be Sandspit potter Maggie Matheson.

Maggie took up pottery about five years ago after injury forced her to give up tennis.

“A friend and I joined Kowhai Arts & Craft at the same time … I’d never done anything arty before,” she says. “We picked up a slab of clay and a rolling pin, and it started from there.”

Maggie says she began by making garden art including simply fashioned fish and lilies. Since then, her work has expanded to include more intricately sculptured pieces of varying sizes.

“Although it’s just a hobby, it’s nice when other people find pleasure and enjoyment in what I’ve produced.

“I still belong to Kowhai Arts and appreciate the advice that the more experienced members are able to provide.”

The garden remains a strong influence in Maggie’s work which is noted for its bright, colourful glazes.