GRETCHEN ALBRECHT AND EVE ARMSTRONG

In collaboration with Albrecht, Armstrong has selected six paintings dating between 1976 – 1981. Unseen for a number of years, these historical paintings have now become the starting point for the exhibition. As well as the early paintings Albrecht will exhibit a major new ‘hemisphere’ work, true to the familiar characteristics of this series but made with a freshness that comes from revisiting Armstrong’s selection of earlier works. Armstrong’s work will be assembled in the gallery from a carefully selected array of found objects and materials, not complete until the last possible moment.

What at first might seem an unlikely pairing of artists is in fact an opportunity to address their respective practices in a way that draws out the many formal relationships that exist, albeit alongside the more obvious points of difference. From attentive consideration of colour, form and texture, to the intuitive yet scrupulous way that both artists approach the process of their art making, the parallels between the two bodies of work begin to unfold.

Despite working in vastly different mediums and across generations this project brings together two artists who share similar formal concerns and emotional responses to the world we inhabit. The opportunity for audiences to engage with the work in a new and perhaps unexpected way has been fundamental to its conception.

Gretchen Albrecht (b. 1943) has exhibited extensively in New Zealand and abroad since 1964. Her work is held in all major public collections in New Zealand and is widely represented in private collections in New Zealand and abroad. Albrecht is represented by Sue Crockford Gallery, Auckland.

Eve Armstrong (b. 1978) currently lives and works in Wellington. This will be her fourth exhibition with the
gallery. Other recent exhibitions include; Ruby: A Forty Year Love Affair with The Dowse, The Dowse Art
Museum, Lower Hutt, New Zealand (2011); The Woods that See and Hear, Dertien Hectare, The Netherlands (2010); After, The Physics Room, Christchurch, New Zealand (2010); Mind the step, 1301PE, Los Angeles (2009). Residencies include; The McCahon Arts Residency, Auckland (2009); Artist in Residence, Asia New Zealand Foundation, Hong Kong (2008). Upcoming exhibitions include; Prospect: New Zealand Art Now, City Gallery, Wellington (2011).

Both artists have been recognised by The Arts Foundation for their contribution to the visual arts in New
Zealand.

The exhibition will be accompanied by a catalogue co-published by Michael Lett and Sue Crockford Gallery,
which includes a new text by Heather Galbraith and has been designed by Kelvin Soh.

Please contact the gallery for further details.