Celebrating 25 Shows with Marie Kjestrup Evans

25 Shows. 11 years. 5 Cities.

One mission.

Connecting with the art lovers of Aotearoa. Creating an environment where

 artists can flourish.

Cementing stories and memories in artworks. Curating shows with an emphasis on

Art For Everyone,

 expanding, year after year,

and having a lot of fun along the way!

        This month, the return of the Auckland Art Show to The Viaduct Events Centre marks our 25th art show in Aotearoa. Whilst this is a special milestone for us, it is also a special milestone for, Marie Kjestrup Evans. In the past 11 years, Marie has accomplished the impressive feat of being our longest-standing artist. Showcasing her work at every single one of our shows! We believe that there really is no better way to celebrate this special milestone than with Marie, having her highlighting her journey with us, in her own words.

On hearing this news, I was surprised to know I was the only artist to achieve this feat but otherwise hadn’t given much thought to the fact. I knew I had been a part of Art Shows Across Aotearoa since its inception in Christchurch, eleven years ago. And from the get-go, I loved the experience- evident in the fact I have showcased at each consecutive show since. It has been an amazing journey, and I feel very blessed to be a part of it. I feel the shows really enable me to be able put my energy into creating, while ASAA put the energy into staging the show. I gain new inspiration from travelling the country, spend time with like-minded artists, collectors, and promoters.

Because for me, creating is way of life- I live and breathe it. In the time I have been showcasing with ASAA I have grown as an artist, and have witnessed a progression in my artistic style. I continue to push the boundaries, exploring new techniques, pursuing new ideas, and themes. The shows have become my thinking time, where I critique my work, and plan a path forward.

Marie (pictured below) is a Contemporary artist, currently Waitārere Beach-based. She specializes mainly in semi-abstract paintings. She uses line, colour, layering and texture to create unique, expressive works full of energy, emotion and movement. Working from memory allows her freedom of expression. Her paintings are held in collections around the world.

My most memorable show was in Christchurch immediately after the covid lockdown. In 2020 due to covid restrictions ASAA went online, so the coming together of artists, promoters and buyers after months of isolation was for myself, a feeling of anticipation for a brighter future in uncertain times. Other major highlights have been the friendships I have established. And as with everything there have also been times when I have encountered personal sadness. But being able to get lost in the world of creating, has been a life saver. The ASAA team have actively supported me through these times by making it possible for me to exhibit. Easy and open lines of communication allow artists to feel supported, lifting any obstacles to find successful alternatives or options. I actively encourage emerging and other artist to consider exhibiting. ASAA it is a great place to showcase work and progress. All and all in a supportive, positive and educational environment.

I love what I do, and I paint what I love. There's something very special about creating bold, joy filled pieces that light up homes and lift spirits. Knowing my art becomes part of people's lives, memories and stories is priceless The creative process is challenging and deeply personal, pushing me in many directions. But I wouldn't have it any other way.

And neither would we! Come and see what Marie has created to celebrate 25 shows with us in Auckland later this month, June 27- 29. Where at our VIP Event, Marie will be presented with an award to recognize her journey with us.  We are looking forward to having Marie showcase her paintings with us, at many more of our shows- to another 25!