Art seen: Abstracts and landscapes

Erin Driessen takes a look at the latest exhibtions around Dunedin.

Rob Piggott, "Landmarks", Rocda Gallery

Rob Piggot's exhibition "Landmarks", at Rocda Gallery, is composed of works on paper produced between 1999 and 2001.

These works have a dualistic quality: at once abstracts and landscapes, the subject matter near to and far from the viewer, the artist's technique both light and bold.

The dates of these works take nothing from the contemporary feel; they rather add to the historical and monumental associations of landmarks.

Piggott's works are all of irregular shape, the background a monoprint on paper, with charcoal and pastel used in bold lines and blocks in the foreground.

References to New Zealand in the titles are combined with geometric shapes, earthy colours and patterned lines, so as to evoke, simultaneously, the local and the global.

This mixture of near and far (as far as you wish to go) is highlighted in Piggott's use of black lines in parallel patterns.

We view works like Sunset on the Mountain or Taieri Evening from above, looking down on tracks or paths, at the same time as we peer through a fence or window.

In other works, such as Marsh Grass, these marks become unmistakably a part of the land.

Piggott has put together a solid exhibition of works that shows a range of personal responses, yet openly invites the viewer to find their own associations.

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Tony Williams, "Christmas Exhibition (New Work)", Tony Williams Gallery

The intricacy of Tony Williams' craft is currently on display in a Christmas exhibition of new work at Tony Williams Gallery.

Gold pendants, rings and necklaces are enamelled in deep greens, reds and blues: appropriately festive.

Beyond the season, however, is the Middle Eastern influence.

Williams has acquired quartz Persian seals, with images including a buffalo, scorpion, pegasus and bird (these have been appreciatively placed among the jewellery made from them).

He has then used the seals to create small reliefs in gold, which are then fed on to gold chains along with lapis, ruby and amazonite stones.

Though heavy, Williams' small pieces appear light, as if made from foil; their central position on each necklace is therefore beautifully complemented by the chunkier stonework.

The new exhibition is shown alongside previous work, which allows the viewer a chance to compare.

Captivating are the different effects of enamelling in Williams' work; butterfly wings are delicate and see-through, whereas the new Renaissance Ring is candy-like and ornamental.

These new pieces are works of care and detail, and are unique combinations of fine and wearable art.

Time is imbued in Williams' art: ideas of travel, history and geography are evident in these slowly and precisely built, elegant works.

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Pauline Bellamy and Jodie Austin, "Elderflower Champagne and Starling Soup", Bellamy's Gallery

Ceramics by Jodie Austin and paintings and etchings by Pauline Bellamy combine in "Elderflower Champagne and Starling Soup" at Bellamy's Gallery to state, New Zealanders: Cherish Your Heritage.

The family heritage and lineage exhibited here is specific to the kitchen.

Austin has incorporated handwritten recipes, passed down through generations, into fine bowls and plates of paper clay.

Emphasis is on the handmade, in cooking, art and writing.

Women are present as creators and recorders, artists and subject matter.

Intermingled with Austin's ceramics are Bellamy's paintings and etchings of ingredients and appliances.

The lighter work of the creamy dishes and etchings is complemented by the heavier, colourful oils displayed beside bowls, on the floor or hung together in series.

The different placements of works on tables, shelf casings or in corners make for a cosy, homely feel.

Works in small groups of three heighten the sense of the complementary.

Austin's Heritage Platters serve starling soup, possum stew and jugged hare.

Bellamy's three canvases Lemony Green, Eggplant Shine and Greeny Lemon add shine and freshness.

The exhibition's witty title is worked into three of Austin's paper bowls.

The two artists have both always made elderflower champagne.

The drink's festive evocations, alongside images of the seasonal starling, make this show perfect pre-Christmas viewing.