Davis (Photo supplied)
In a
testament to its commitment to inspiring girls, Samuel
Marsden Collegiate School is delighted to announce Lori
Davis as its 2024 Artist in Residence. The appointment marks
another milestone in the school’s longstanding Artist in
Residence programme, which has been nurturing artists since
its inception in 1999.
Deemed the ultimate creative
masterclass, Marsden’s Artist in Residence programme
offers Visual Art students and students in the wider school
the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with practising
artists. The programme also extends to primary schools in
the local community, whose students are invited each year to
attend a workshop run by Marsden’s Artist in
Residence.
Lori, originally from the eastern suburbs
of Wellington, is a distinguished artist and brings a wealth
of experience to the programme. With past studios in Nelson
and Wellington, and currently in Christchurch, she has
established herself in the New Zealand art scene. Her work,
which is fuelled by nature and Aotearoa’s unique
landforms, is showcased in design stores across the country.
Lori’s notable artistic achievements include being a
founding member of the Light Nelson collective and her
collaboration with the Nelson Arts Festival in 2011. The
Nelson City Council commissioned her to develop a painting
that encapsulated Nelson City, and this became part of a
loop film projection onto the steeple of Nelson
Cathedral.
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“My philosophy about art is
that it is good for the soul, and it creates connection and
wellbeing,” says Lori. “I apply this philosophy by
observing, drawing, and composing pictures that are
individual and tell a story.”
Through
mentorship and hands-on instruction, Lori will guide
students in exploring a diverse range of themes and
techniques over the course of five weeks. During her
residency, she aims to develop students’ skills in design,
application, and installation through a collaborative
Matariki-themed fluorescent project. Lori is excited to see
where their collective creativity will take them.
“I
love to seek new challenges that encourage innovation, and
this residency is an extraordinary opportunity for me to
grow and develop design skills, as I am very influenced by
the way young students can think so directly, intuitively
and creatively.”
Lori’s residency will culminate in
a Matariki-themed exhibition showcasing the body of work
created in collaboration with students, along with some of
her own pieces. This will take place at Marsden’s Matariki
community celebration, 5.30pm – 7.30pm on Friday 21
June.
“The opportunity to work alongside students
creating art for five weeks is truly remarkable. I look
forward to inspiring a bold design to create an eye-catching
Matariki installation.”
Kathryn Cotter, Marsden’s
Head of Visual Art, expressed her enthusiasm stating, “We
are thrilled to welcome Lori as our Artist in Residence for
2024. Her passion for artistic expression and commitment to
nurturing young talent align perfectly with Marsden’s
values. We look forward to the inspiring collaboration that
will unfold during her
residency.”
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