Lopdell House Guided Tour

Overview

The McCahon House Residency is one of the most prestigious artist residencies in New Zealand, and no wonder—it is located in the home place of one of New Zealand's most iconic artists. Picture yourself making art in the middle of the bush in Titirangi, to the background music of birdsong and rustling leaves, with, tui, piwakawaka and kereru keeping you company. I sure could think of a worse way to spend three months of any given year.

As part of Artweek Auckland 2014 Kate Wells, former curator of Lopdell House Gallery, will be offering a tour of the works of over 20 artists who have completed the residency. It's a great opportunity to hear a curator's interpretation of the artwork on display. The artists include some of New Zealand's best: Judy Millar, Martin Basher, Andrew McLeod, Ruth Buchanan, Fiona Pardington and Dan Arps, to name a few.

In addition to the art collection you will also get to peruse the McCahon House Museum, located in Colin McCahon's formative abode. The residency studio is located nearby. Purpose-built by Pete Bossley Architects, it's a beautiful light filled space.

The tour begins at 2pm, so why not make a day of it with a leisurely bush-walk in the morning and a packed picnic at Piha afterwards? Sounds like a dream date day to me.

Image source: Ruth Buchanan Residency Series 2013 Sensitive Fingertips 2 Digital Print on IlfordGalerie Sm gloss 290gsm (300mm x 430mm)