A short hour north of the city is perhaps one of the country’s most intriguing art galleries, hidden in plain sight on working pastures. Gibbs Farm is an often-undiscovered collection of sculptural art that is usually open to the public by appointment only, meaning that a visit to this curation of significant works is not something many of us get the chance to do. That said, in the name of fundraising for the McCahon House Trust, Gibbs Farm will be opening for a day, offering a rare opportunity to view the works in person. And given the popularity of previous fundraisers for the artistic trust, you’ll want to book your tickets, STAT (even though the visit isn’t until early next year).
After nearly 20 years of curation and creation, Gibbs Farm on the Kaipara harbour is home to many international and New Zealand leading artists. The nature of these works is reflected in the fact that they are commissioned, not simply purchased, allowing the artist to create something that directly responds to its rugged coastal environment. In this alone, it serves as a place for artistic talents to flourish and had resulted in a collection of truly spectacular pieces.
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Gibbs Farm very generously supports organisations like McCahon House by opening their gates for fundraisers. Set in the former home of Colin McCahon, the Titirangi address is home to a thriving, rotating artist residency. It is inherent that in supporting the McCahon House Trust, we are supporting the next generation of local talent. Here, both art and artists in our country are given the opportunity to flourish, so up-and-coming talent may one day reach the calibre of McCahon’s enduring vision.
Seeking to raise all-important funds for this artistic endeavour, the Gibbs Farm visit is a ticketed event, with all proceeds going towards the Trust’s operational costs and extensive education and public programmes for the next two years. As a non-profit charitable organisation, McCahon House Trust relies on grants, donations, and fundraising initiatives, just like this one. The Gibbs Farm visit is one of their more significant fundraising drives, the last of which was in March 2021.
While the fundraiser will take place on Sunday, the 2nd of April, 2023, we know that tickets are already highly coveted. Always a popular event, this visit promises new curiosities and excitement, alongside a healthy dose of artistic inspiration. Tickets are essential and can be purchased here.
