Stillness | a Solo Exhibition By Rieko Woodford-robinson

STILLNESS
A Solo Exhibition by Rieko Woodford- Robinson
October 12- November 2

Over the past two years, within her Wellington studio and against the backdrop of the pandemic, Rieko Woodford-Robinson coaxed each of her endearing native New Zealand subjects into life. This body of work is titled Stillness- a fitting name for works painted during those quieter, isolated days. Many of us shared a desire during those uncertain times to retreat inward and pour one’s attention into a world separate from current events; for Rieko it was a focused channelling of affection and tender care into every feather and feature of her characters that provided necessary escapism.
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Through her techniques Rieko doesn’t just capture realism, but also a unique sense of wonderment, awe and grace- conjuring the majestic moment of encounter with a bird in nature or in your backyard. For many, such encounters in our natural environment were something that we appreciated anew during a time with limited overseas travel.
These paintings celebrate the native fauna that New Zealand is lucky to have as taonga. From Kākā, to Kākāpō and Kiwi, each subject is captured in a traditional style of formal portraiture usually reserved for dignitaries and the esteemed. The reverence given to her native subjects is a call to respect, preserve and protect our natural environment.

There is a sense of comforting in the works of this exhibition, with blankets wrapping the subjects and beautiful adornments gifted to each. These gestures communicate ideas of aroha, restoration and healing.
Stillness is a rumination on the experiences of the last two years. The message is one of hope, that we take away the lessons that period has provided us; knowing when to inflect, a renewed appreciation and care for our natural environment, and knowing how and when to slow down. Rieko invites you to be still before her creations, as she describes these works reflect a “stillness before sunrise”, a pause, a breath and a “wish for a brighter future”.
Part of the proceeds of the sales of Rieko Woodford-Robinson’s work is donated to bird recovery programmes.

Exhibition Opens and Artworks For Sale: Wednesday, October 12 at 10:00am
Late Night Viewing: Wednesday, October 12 from 5:00pm-7:00pm
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Artist Meet and Greet: Meet artist Rieko Woodford-Robinson at the gallery Saturday October 15, from 11:00am- 12:30pm. All Welcome.
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General Exhibition Viewing: Exhibition is open daily.
Monday-Friday 10:00am-5:00pm
Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm
Sunday 11:00am-3:00pm
Note: The gallery is closed on Labour Weekend- Sunday October 23 & Monday October 24.

Purchasing an Artwork: The works of this exhibition will be released for sale at 10:00am on October 12. The full catalogue will be listed on this website page and the works will be on show at Black Door Gallery. To ensure fair opportunity we will not be pre-selling this exhibition, so please take note of this release date and time. We invite you to contact the gallery to secure a work, by phone +649 368 4554, email info@blackdoorgallery.co.nz, or in person at Black Door Gallery, 251 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland