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This ‘n That, the second collaborative exhibition by artists Steve Guthrie and Rowan Christopherson, is showing at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery.
This vibrant exhibition brings together two distinct yet complementary creative voices, offering visitors an engaging and eclectic visual experience.
Christopherson’s work is instantly recognisable for its integration of words as a central artistic element. Incorporating song lyrics and pop culture phrases, her pieces aim to trigger memory, spark curiosity and create moments of humour and reflection.
“The words I use are often familiar, and I love seeing how they resonate differently with each viewer,” she says.
In contrast, Guthrie presents a colourful assortment of paintings, ranging from intimate still lifes to expansive seascapes. His expressive approach is defined by heavy brushwork and generous use of paint, drawing inspiration from artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Henri Matisse.
“Trying new techniques and pushing my work further is what keeps it exciting for me,” Guthrie says.
His journey into art is both unconventional and inspiring.
“I tell people I am an artist by accident,” he says, referencing a spinal injury at age 20 that resulted in tetraplegia.
Despite limited movement in his arms and hands, he has built a dedicated painting practice. “I love painting because I can complete a piece independently. That’s really important to me.”
Prior to focusing on art, Guthrie represented New Zealand in wheelchair rugby at the 2004 Paralympics, where the team won gold.
Painting outdoors has played a significant role in his artistic development, alongside years of study and experimentation. He continues to evolve his style, embracing variety rather than adhering to a single approach.
This ‘n That celebrates contrast and connection between text and image, boldness and subtlety, and two artists united by a shared commitment to creative exploration where stories are woven through each work.
The exhibition is showing at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery, 45 Moir Street, Mangawhai, open daily from 10.30am to 3.30pm (and from 9am on Saturdays) until May 14.
