Summer of Art: Opening Events
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Summer of Art: Opening Events

Come join us to celebrate the opening of Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery

After a decade of anticipation, we are thrilled to share with you the opening of Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery. From 9 November to 8 December 2024, join us for the beginning of the Summer of Art, a vibrant lineup of events to mark the opening in style for the whole family.

Whether experiencing the Nō Konei | From Here exhibition, participating in the Opening Ceremony Mihi, or joining us for performances, talks, and fun activities inside and outside the gallery, there will be something for everyone during the Summer of Art.

Download the Nō Konei | From Here Pamphlet

Event Details

Find all the event details below.

Download the Summer of Art Brochure

Dates

9 November – 8 December 2024

Location

Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, Pukenamu Queen’s Park, Whanganui

Opening Hours
Gallery: 10am – 5pm
Café: 10am – 4pm, 7pm on Fridays

Open every day excluding Christmas Day, Good Friday, and half day ANZAC Day.

Event Highlights

Here’s an overview of the programme.

9-10 November

Opening Weekend

We kicked off the Summer of Art with a weekend of celebration – the Opening Ceremony Mihi, a Mass Percussion Parade led by Brass Whanganui, and live performances from local and national artists. Plus stunning lighting projections illuminated the gallery at night.

Throughout the weekend, we learnt more about Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, originally opened in 1919 following the generous bequest of Henry Sarjeant, and its new wing Te Pātaka o Tā Te Atawhai Archie John Taiaroa, honouring kaumātua Tā Archie Taiaroa. There were several talks exploring his pursuit of recognition for the mana of the Awa and his iwi. We also heard from the designers and architects behind the redevelopment, including the co-design process that brought this new wing to life.

10 November – 8 December

Whānau Activities

Bring the family and take part in Whānau Fun in the Classroom and Storytime in the Classroom every weekend throughout the month of events, featuring hands-on art activities suitable for all ages.

15 November

SOLD OUT: Triptych 3: Untamed Hope with NZTrio

Experience a captivating concert featuring NZTrio, known for its diverse repertoire and exceptional talent. This performance promises an enriching experience as the trio showcases their musical prowess in our newly opened space. This is a ticketed event. 

19 November

Henry Sarjeant’s Birthday

We learnt about the history of our founding benefactor with a special history talk led by Curator of Collections Jennifer Taylor. Following the talk, historian Scott Flutey leg for a guided walk through Sarjeant Street, culminating at Henry Sarjeant’s grave.

23-24 November

Edith Collier Weekend

A weekend exploring the life and legacy of renowned New Zealand modernist Edith Collier through engaging panels and an exhibition tour. This weekend celebrated Edith Collier’s contributions to art and we were lucky enough to be joined by several inspirational speakers to discuss the art world of today and the sensational women who play a part in it.

30 November

Documentary: Maurice and I

Watch this feature-length documentary on Sir Miles Warren and Maurice Mahoney, founders of the architecture firm Warren and Mahoney, which led the redevelopment of Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery.

7-8 December

Art and Legacy Weekend

Engage in insightful discussions and artist talks that celebrate the gallery’s rich heritage. This weekend highlights the enduring influence of key figures in New Zealand art and explores the gallery’s exciting future.