It will feature 10 or more pieces exploring pattern, structure and movement, including geometric wall hangings made of glass and chain, with glass sculptures displayed on pedestals.
Fitz Patrick was selected through an international callout.
NZG manager Madeline Prowd said they received “a strong pool of applications” and Fitz Patrick’s artwork emitted “feelings of fluidity”.
“[She’s] really utilising the sheet glass in an alternative way to be able to create movement in the works.”
Fitz Patrick was the supreme winner of the Lysaght Watt Trust Art Awards in 2023.
Fitz Patrick said much of her work was experimental.
“I’m always looking to push the boundaries to find out what else I can do.”
Much of her process stems from her years working with fabric.
About 10 years ago, she retired from a textile business she ran with her partner in Auckland and moved back to Whanganui after a 33-year gap.
“I love it down here.”
Originally from New Plymouth, she lived in Whanganui for 13 years after marrying.
“I came back partly because I had enjoyed it and really felt that the city was a lovely city to live in.”
As she eased into retirement, she said she “got really bored”.
She decided to study at Ucol and completed a Diploma in Arts and Design in 2019.
“I love geometric patterns, so that’s the tapestries and the woven textiles.
“I like to then cut them up and move them around and make different patterns again, and then fuse them back into their rigid space.”
She uses a similar process to create her glass pieces.
“It’s not like anything I’ve seen anybody else do.”
The exhibition’s title reflects her pattern-focused style.
Fitz Patrick said being selected for a solo spot at NZG was a surprise.
“I’m rapt. I’m inclined to plan big and then panic if I win something.”
NZG is the national centre for glass in New Zealand and has a working studio and gallery space.
Erin Smith is a multimedia journalist based in Whanganui.
