Opening 9 November, Nō Konei | From Here marks the first season of exhibitions for Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery’s much-anticipated return.
Nō Konei | From Here (9 November 2024 - 11 May 2025) features over 200 extraordinary works spanning four centuries of European and New Zealand art history, filling the gallery’s newly expanded spaces. It sets the tone for a future of dynamic programming that reflects both deep artistic heritage and bold new creative horizons.
The opening season of exhibitions includes a stunning survey of Edith Collier’s groundbreaking works, solo projects by renowned artists Matthew McIntyre Wilson, Tia Ranginui, and Alexis Neal, as well as newly commissioned pieces from close to 20 artists from across Aotearoa New Zealand. The exhibitions traverse the gallery’s spaces and collection, aiming to create conversations that span across time and media.
Greg Donson, Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery Senior Curator and Programmes Manager, said,“Our opening season of exhibitions reflect both the rich artistic legacy and the bold new directions Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery is moving towards.
“The heritage galleries alongside our new spaces will enable us to continue to offer the best of contemporary art practice in Aotearoa and beyond. Ultimately, we aim to provide our community and visitors with an enriching and memorable art experience, unique to here.”
In the heritage wing, the opening season of exhibitions Nō Konei | From Here emphasises works from the gallery's diverse and eclectic collection. While the collection’s varied nature prevents the telling of a singular story of European or New Zealand art history, the curatorial team have chosen key works that function as amplifiers.
These works evoke feelings tied to our histories and memories. From beloved historical works through to contemporary paintings, photography and sculpture, and sit alongside new projects by Matthew McIntyre Wilson and Tia Ranginui, which speak to both our past and future.
In the new wing, Te Pātaka o Tā Te Atawhai Archie John Taiaroa, Nō Konei | From Here focuses on new works, alongside a solo project by Alexis Neal, and explores the concept of belonging, shaped by our environment, memories, and history. Artists draw inspiration from their inner worlds and local landscapes, reflecting both the unchanging and transformed environments of Whanganui.
“The opening season Nō Konei | From Here not only celebrates our return to Pukenamu Queen’s Park but sets the tone for the future of the gallery,” says Andrew Clifford, Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery Director.
“This is about creating a space where heritage and innovation meet—where we honour our past while opening up exciting possibilities for the future of art in Aotearoa. It’s important that these opening exhibitions situate us in this place and acknowledge where we’ve come from in order to map where we’re going. The expanded facilities allow us to continue supporting artists and fostering cultural growth for generations to come.
“Now fully earthquake strengthened, lovingly restored and extended, a world class cultural resource has been realised for the community of Whanganui and Aotearoa.”
Images:
1. Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery
2. Nō Konei | From Here works from the collection
3. Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery dome