Covid lockdown inspires Bream Bay artists in Northland

Jake Tait, the youngest member of the Bream Bay Combined Arts Group. Photo / supplied

The Covid lockdown inspired a creative renaissance in Northland's Bream Bay, with the artistic results about to be exhibited.

Bream Bay Combined Arts Group chairperson Colin Coutts said the lockdown was tough on artists and it had been positive to see them come back out of the woodwork this year to interact with like-minded people.

"A lot of people were hiding away and we've been pushing them to come out. It's good therapy," Coutts said.

The exhibition will be held in the group's new home, the Arts Cottage, which was moved onto its Ruakākā site and refurbished by volunteers last year, despite Covid forcing tools down for six weeks.

As well as an exhibition venue, the Arts Cottage is a working art space, something the group lacked when they exhibited at the Marsden Cove Marquee in previous years.

"We had a number of people who were very self-conscious about displaying their work in front of the public. There was a need for something in the area where they could meet, work and bounce off each other," he said.

The group has 58 members, mainly from the Bream Bay area but count two avid supporters from Kaitaia in their number.

Just over half of the members will be exhibiting this year and most of the work on display will be for sale.

The exhibition will be held at 35 Lakeside Park Rd, Ruakākā, on February 20 and 21, from 10am to 3pm.

Prices range from $15 for small pottery items, up to several hundred dollars for some of the paintings.

Artists keep most of the funds, with a 10 per cent commission going to the group, which relies heavily on fundraising.

Membership for a full year costs $70 and the weekly groups include painting, pottery, weaving and flax work. Email bbcombinedartsgroup@gmail.com.