Current Exhibition Details

Sculpture in Central Otago - 2009 Information

Don't forget next Sculpture in Central Otago - opening 6 Feb 2011


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6 February to 3 May 2009

 Sculpture in Central Otago has been bringing quality New Zealand sculpture to the majestic vineyard region of Central Otago since 2004. The next Sculpture in Central Otago event, scheduled for February 2009, is moving from Bannockburn to the Wanaka’s Rippon Vineyard, described by many as one of the most beautiful vineyard settings in the world. Located on the western shores of Lake Wanaka on undulating terrain, within a basin of the Southern Alps, this site is ideal for large-scale sculptures that will be positioned to form a sculpture trail through the extensive and varied vineyard and the natural features of the landscape. 

A change in venue brings a shift in focus. Sculpture in Central Otago founders Norma Dutton and Peter Gregg welcome the opportunity to collaborate with Rippon directors Nick and Jo Mills to develop and manage an event in accordance with the biodynamic principles followed at the vineyard and winery. Consistent with sustainable practices, the placement of sculptures will have minimal impact on the soil and vines and must leave no permanent trace, renewing the ground to its former state. Rippon uses no herbicides, fungicides or chemical fertilisers and reuses organic waste within the vineyard, so the event will adopt a zero-waste policy and introduce no chemical material to the soil. 

Sustainability and environmental concerns inform the work of many of the leading New Zealand sculptors invited to exhibit at Sculpture in Central Otago 2009. 

While celebrating the stunning Southern Lakes landscape and the talent and diversity of sculptors, the event also contributes to the local community, making a financial donation each year to community projects. Sculpture in Central Otago continues Rippon Vinyard’s long association with the arts and will contribute to the thriving cultural activity of the Wanaka region. The vineyard’s long-term commitment to the annual event ensures it will recur on the South Island cultural calendar as a popular opportunity to view and purchase quality New Zealand sculpture. 

Following on from the focus of the main Waitangi Weekend event our intention this year is to retain and market any unsold works on site through to the third of May 2009. This is when visitor numbers to the vineyard are at their highest and will also incorporate Easter and The Southern Lakes Festival of Colour. 

The exhibition preview with wine and food will be opened by a guest speaker on the evening of Friday 6 February. Celebrated New Zealand painter Don Binney will attend the gala opening as guest speaker. Participating artists are encouraged to attend. 

The exhibition will continue to be open to the public on a daily basis. Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 February will be public days with added events of interest to attract visitor numbers. Additional events will be held during the Southern Lakes Festival of Colour which runs from 28 April to 3 May 2009.