Art for a good cause

FACES OF THE COAST: Brett Summerlee with some of the art that was auctioned off for Māhia Wave Warriors. Picture by Rebecca Grunwell

Gisborne artists have once again donated time and effort to aid Māhia Wave Warriors.

The Faces of the Coast art exhibition and auction opened on Friday night with a solid turnout.

The paintings were on sale to raise money for Māhia Wave Warriors to aid in the work they do in the community.

Organiser Brett Summerlee said it was an “epic night”.

Faces of the Coast has a Trade Me-style bidding system. Some paintings have a “buy now” option while the rest are being auctioned off.

On the night, 11 of the 25 artworks, displayed at Cafe Forty10 in Lowe Street, were sold for a total of $3690.

“All proceeds will go to the Māhia Wave Warriors to aid in the amazing work they do in and out of the water,” Mr Summerlee said.

“All bids started at $150 to honour and respect the donating artist's time and generosity.

“It was the perfect opportunity to purchase a special piece of art for Christmas and support an essential cause.”

About 10 pieces were still up for grabs and would be available until Christmas.

Māhia Wave Warriors co-founder Wayne Kawana said the organisation was thrilled with the result.

“This is the third time the boys have done this for us.”

Previous auctions have helped the group buy surfboards and children's wetsuits to help run their Māhia surf days.

“It means the kids can surf for free and we just give them some pointers.”