We are thrilled to bring this travelling exhibition from the Waiheke Community Art Gallery to the South Island which highlights the life and work of one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed textile artists Malcolm Harrison (1941-2007). Showcasing works sourced from the artist’s own personal collection comprising of quilts, wool tapestries, linen embroideries, tapa cloth pieces alongside painted works on paper, small sculpture, assemblages, poetry, illustrations and children’s books. This exhibition showcases Harrison’s finely developed craftsmanship and artistic skills across mediums from working drawings through to finished creations.

Harrison’s notable achievements include the commission of These are the Matters of Pride and Whanaungatanga (Relationships) for the New Zealand Parliament Buildings and being awarded the inaugural Creative New Zealand Craft/Object fellowship.

This exhibition is curated by freelance curator and researcher Ceryls Dallaway Davidson. Her background is in textiles and fashion design and she is currently a research assistant at the New Zealand Fashion Museum.

Exhibition toured and developed by the Waiheke Community Art Gallery.

Header image credit: Malcolm Harrison, Russian Caviar (detail), 1991, machine quilted and appliqued cloth.

Image: Malcolm Harrison, a quiet meal at the Chez (detail), June 30 1989, machine quilted and appliqued cloth.