Celebrate Creativity: The Mahurangi Artist’s Studio Trail Returns around the Rodney-Mahurangi region

Art lovers and cultural explorers, mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Mahurangi Artist’s Studio trail is set to take place between 31 January and 9 February 2025, offering a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant creativity of the Mahurangi region. This free event invites visitors to explore the studios of talented local artists, discover their creative processes, have a go for yourself, and purchase one-of-a-kind artwork.

This free, self-guided event invites art lovers, families, and curious minds to explore a diverse range of art practices, from painting and ceramics to textiles, photography, sculpture, and more. With over 48 artists participating including 15 new members, in 25 venues, the trail is a fantastic way to experience the heart of Mahurangi’s creative community while discovering stunning works of art, meet the artists, and immerse yourself in the stories behind the work.

Finding the venues is as simple as looking out for the distinctive red, blue, yellow and white bunting, pick up a brochure, or download the details from https://www.mahurangiartistnetwork.com/mast2025-art-trail/a1.-opening-night-mast25

What to expect:

• Meet the Makers: Step inside the studios and connect with artists as they share insights into their techniques and inspirations.

• Live Demonstrations: Witness creativity in action with live demonstrations of painting, pottery, textile stitching, and other mediums.

• Unique Purchases: Take home original, locally-made art, with options to suit all budgets.

• Explore Mahurangi: Enjoy a day of art and exploration, discovering the beauty and charm of our local area.

• Have a Go Workshop experiences: Spend a little time rekindling your creative vibes through any of the workshop opportunities in painting, sculpture, ceramic, glass.

Discover Creative Clay, Posca and Juice, Creative Re-Vibe, Introduction to Fused Glass at the Warkworth Town Hall; have Fun with Stencils at the Women’s Centre; make Creative Upcycled Art at Less Waste.

Family friendly for all ages and free unless otherwise stated.

• Preview Evening: Meet the artists, get the first chance to see and buy artwork by coming along to the very popular opening evening on Thursday 30th January 6 - 8 pm at the Warkworth Town Hall.

Event Details:

• Dates: 31 January to 9 February 2025

• Times: 10am - 4pm (Some studio opening days and times vary, please see brochure or website for details)

• Locations: 25 venues from Mahurangi West, Warkworth, Kaipara Flats, Sandspit, Snell Beach, Scott’s Landing, Matakana, Tawharanui Peninsula and Leigh.

• A full map is available at www.mahurangiartistnetwork.com , libraries, shops, cafes and information centres.

• Cost: Free to attend

Whether you’re an avid collector, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who loves to discover hidden gems, the Mahurangi Artist’s Studio Trail promises an inspiring and memorable experience.

The Trail Hub is to be found in the Warkworth Town Hall on the corner of Alnwick Street and Neville Street. Here you will find a selection of artists, have-a-go workshops, the Member’s exhibition, artist and venue information, the fundraising art sale and the refreshment hub run by the Lions of Kowhai Coast with proceeds going to local charities.

About Mahurangi Artist’s Studio Trail:

The Mahurangi Artist’s Studio Trail is a celebration of the vibrant creative scene in the Rodney region bringing the community together to connect with local artists and their work. Now in its 7th year, the event has become a highlight of the cultural calendar, attracting visitors from near and far.

The event is organised by the Mahurangi Artist Network, a growing group of local creatives. It is also supported by Auckland Council, Rodney Local Board, Creative Communities Scheme and the Lions of Kowhai Coast.

Whether you’re a passionate art collector, a budding creative, or simply looking for a memorable day out, the Mahurangi Artist’s Studio Trail is a must-visit event.