Christchurch is located in New Zealand’s South Island and is the area’s largest city. In terms of population size it is surpassed only by Wellington and Auckland. While the city is best known for its strong agricultural heritage, it has also become an important center for New Zealand art and design. Booking bus hire in Christchurch will easily allow you to tour the city’s best art attractions with your group.
Bryce Gallery
New Zealand’s South Island has a slower pace and atmosphere which is ideal for artistic endeavours, which is perfectly manifested in this gallery. Managed by Min Kim, the Bryce Gallery specializes in impressionist artwork, which is inspired by the interior design she performed in South Korea. The gallery features a large selection of works which are originals, including sculptures. Aside from showcasing New Zealand’s top artists, the staff also works as consultants, helping local property owners select colours and designs which are well suited to their buildings.
The Central
This is one of the newest art galleries to open its doors in Christchurch, and was founded by Jonathan Smart working in conjunction with prominent local families. This is the first gallery of the Christchurch Arts Centre to focus on contemporary works, which has been increasing in popularity since the earthquake of 2011. Each display is set up carefully to pay homage to the distinctive character of the facility.
The Physics Room
Art and science are usually thought of as being separated entities, but in the Physics Room they are seamlessly merged into one. This gallery has been in operation since 1999 and focuses on the promotion of art within the cultural and political realm of New Zealand. Events are regularly held here, all of which are very popular.
Waihora Gallery
This art gallery focuses on high end landscapes, as well as printmaking. Clients can purchase prints from them over the web, including originals which have the signature of the artist. Each John print is produced using 310gsm archival paper, utilizing Ultracrome ink pigments from Epson. The goal of Waihora is to produce both prints and photographs which are exceptionally high in quality while also being affordable. Given the fact that buying art over the web can be challenging due to color matching and sizing issues, Waihora works closely with its clients to ensure they get precisely what they need with an outstanding return policy.
Chambers Art Gallery
This art gallery was founded in 2011 and specializes in fine art, particularly that which is produced by local artists such as Sue Cooke and Jason Grieg. Each of the works featured here, whether it is paintings, sculpture or photography, emphasizes the importance of depth and quality as opposed to the medium. It is among New Zealand’s top galleries and should be seen by anyone who is interested in classical style art.
The National
This gallery distinguishes itself from all others in Christchurch due to its focus on jewelry. It is unrivaled in this regard, displaying work from over forty separate jewelers, along with sculptures made of glass and ceramic. The National first opened its doors in 2004 and was initially situated at Madras Street, but has since relocated to Moorhouse Avenue where it retains independent space. The weekly schedule for this gallery is from Tuesday to Saturday and sessions can be setup by appointment.
CoCA
This gallery describes itself as being a location where things occur and people form connections. Indeed, their exhibitions are curated thoughtfully, and they emphasize the creation and display of art which is both contemporary and provocative. In addition to local New Zealand artists, CoCA also features work from artists all over the world.
Christchurch Art Gallery
The Christchurch Art Gallery is a public institution which is funded by the city council. Its collection of art is substantial and showcases a program of both local as well as international talent. The gallery first opened its doors in 2003 and is considered the successor of the Robert McDougall Art Gallery, which was opened from 1932 until 2002. Much of the art showcased here displays Maori elements, and even the building itself has a very distinct architectural style.
Jonathan Smart Gallery
This is another contemporary art gallery that emphasizes regional artwork. Just a few of the prominent artists whose work can be found here include Robert Hood, Judy Darragh, Mark Braunias and Andrew Drummond. The gallery was first established during the 1980s and moved to its present location in Sydenham in 2013. The art featured here is an outstanding representation of works from multiple disciplines as well as backgrounds.
PG Gallery 192
This is a very distinct dealer gallery that is operated in conjunction with a studio for print making. Known in the past as PaperGraphica Gallery, the establishment initially emphasized the display of prints which were created in house, but over time has transformed into a venue which represents local artists of different skillsets and backgrounds. Just a few of the popular artists whose work has been displayed here include Nic Moon, Sam Harrison, and Darryn George.
Absolution
This art gallery stands out from its peers by specializing in tattoos and body art. It maintains its own space for exhibitions, and showcases an extensive collection of modern work. Open nights are always popular due to the drinks and snacks which are made available to attendees and events are regularly held which promote body art through the gallery’s numerous social media outlets.
IIam Campus Gallery
This gallery contains a collection of works which are produced primarily by students from the University of Canterbury, with a few from outside artists. The work displayed here is always exciting and fascinating, as it shows the progression of current art students who will likely become professionals in the future. In addition to the local university, the IIam Campus gallery also displays work from local high schools, including pieces which symbolize the dramatic aftermath of the Christchurch earthquake.