A new exhibition opening at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki on Saturday 20 April explores the art of Aotearoa New Zealand, locating it within Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, the wider Pacific region.

Comprised of works from the Gallery’s extensive New Zealand art collection, Taimoana | Coastlines: Art in Aotearoa takes the theme of the coast to explore multiple perspectives on New Zealand art.

“This new presentation from the Gallery’s collection showcases major holdings of historical, modern and contemporary New Zealand art … Taimoana | Coastlines explores our place in the world, confronting local histories and global issues from a distinctly New Zealand perspective … We’re delighted all visitors can now enjoy a new experience of the Gallery’s treasured collection of New Zealand art and important stories and culture from the nation,” says Lacy.

The exhibition, which includes art from the 18th century to today, has been curated by Dr Sarah Farrar, Nathan Pōhio, Dr Jane Davidson-Ladd and Cameron Ah Loo-Matamua.

Dr Farrar, the Gallery’s Head of Curatorial and Learning points out: “The coast is central to the way of life of many in Aotearoa New Zealand and it has been throughout our entire history … It is integral to te ao Māori and has many purposes, from sustenance and employment, a route for travel, source of recreation and relaxation, inspiration, and conflict. More recently, it has also been impacted by the changing climate with sea-level rise and coastal erosion,” says Dr Farrar.