Easter embraces host of views

An Easter exhibition based on the sufferings of Christ has a most unusual angle - for a start, it is a nonsectarian. The Rev Pauline Stewart, of St Heliers Presbyterian Church, is behind the Stations of the Cross exhibition at Gus Fisher Gallery on Shortland St. The artists were told to approach the theme from their own perspectives. "The story of Jesus going to the cross is really a human journey," the Rev Stewart says. "Art and music speak to everyone. Just because you're not a Christian doesn't mean you don't know suffering and injustice." Octavia Cook, a jeweller, knew little about the Stations of the Cross before she took on the commission and "definitely had to think about whether I wanted to be in it". She read parts of the Bible to gain an understanding of what she was depicting. The result was a crucifix made of barbed copper "nails" in two chains, some of which are twisted to form the words "O God" down the length of the chains. "When you wear it, you'll be in some discomfort," says Ms Cook. "I guess it's because I'm slightly uncomfortable with religion that I chose the uncomfortable angle." Each artist was assigned a station. Hamish Tocher drew what is usually the last station, the resurrection - although this exhibition includes the entombment as a 15th station. Mr Tocher says he enjoyed the experience, having spent the past few years studying Catholic paintings. He is not religious but is interested in the history of the art. "Colin McCahon did the Stations of the Cross in his paintings," he says, "and other New Zealand artists have, too. It's a Kiwi medium, not just a Christian one." His work is a set of six projections on the ceiling of the gallery, which can be viewed as individual figures on the floor. Composers, including Leonie Holmes and Eve de Castro-Robinson, have also created works for the exhibition. As well, there will be concerts and talks about art, music and religion. Rev Stewart says most of her congregation has been hugely supportive of the exhibition, volunteering their time to help with organising or catering. The Presbyterian Church gave her $12,000 sponsorship, to her delight. "At the opening night, we had such amix of people turn up artists, Christians and composers, and we all drank wine together. That's what it's all about."
Stations of the Cross, Gus Fisher Gallery, 74 Shortland St. Until March 24, including Good Friday and Easter Sunday from noon; panel discussion March 19, 6pm; concert, March 23, 2pm. Entry by donation. Contact www.gusfishergallery.auckland.ac.nz