Waimumu Art Exhibition

Smiling faces beckon you in before you disappear into a labyrinth of creative flair.

This is the Waimumu Arts Exhibition and you are so very welcome. The biannual event wraps itself around Mother’s Day celebrations, showcasing guest artists, as well as emerging and established talent.

The mixed media exhibition features affordable art by local and emerging artists and is held in the Waimumu Te Tipua Hall, near Gore.

An opening night on the Friday is not to be missed, but you’ve got five whole days to make time to get along.

Eclectic displays of sculpture, painting, photography, digital media, recycled art, poetry and music will make you linger.

Inspiration comes from many quarters. It might be stunning Southland landscapes, a reflective comment on southern communities, or an explosion of bright colours signifying new beginnings.
The exhibition started more than a decade ago as a garage sale, and such was the response, a dedicated crew of women threw up some string and created some easels for the inaugural show..

The hall is transformed into an artistic wonderland, where incredible talent is nurtured.

There’s so much to see that you’ll need to do a few laps of the hall.

Sitting smack bang in the middle is ‘Our Shop’ with crafty gifts or a little something to take home to pop in that special place. A memento of a fantastic day out. On Mother’s Day all the mums who come through get a special little something.

Did we mention the Devonshire Teas? The scones are to die for.

It’s fun, and a rural community coming together to welcome people from all around the region.
Raffles are run, charity donations are made.

There’s even awards , for Excellence, Merit and Photography.

And to give back to the community, a scholarship is offered for people looking to further their artistic journey.

There’s musical interludes from time to time - a harp player one year, mellow guitar sounds another.
It’s a destination event with people coming from all around Southland and beyond to indulge their creative streaks.

Maruawai Gore and its surrounding district, sometimes called Eastern Southland, boasts an eclectic mix of heritage, culture, and industry.

Maruawai Gore, Southland's second largest town, is well known for its connection with country music, having hosted the annual National Country Music Awards for 36 years. The town also presents the impressive Eastern Southland Gallery and revels in its colourful illicit whisky-making past and farming heritage through various historical attractions, such as the Hokonui Moonshine Museum and the Hokonui Pioneer Village and Museum.