Wellington’s Best Independent Galleries
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- 22 Feb 2023
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New Zealand’s capital is known for its thriving independent art scene, and its compact CBD makes walking from gallery to gallery a breeze. In partnership with Wellington NZ, we uncover the best galleries to check out (and maybe purchase) some contemporary art
Wellington isn’t just the centre of New Zealand’s government – it’s also the country’s cultural capital. Artists have long gravitated to the city for the nourishment offered by its independent galleries, theatre and music scene.
This trend has also benefited visitors and art lovers, making Wellington the perfect place to kick-start or add to an art collection. Buying direct from galleries is the best way to support artists, and most offer lay-by or interest-free loans.
You’ll find most galleries on or around bohemian Cuba Street, so you can tick off several in one outing if you wish, and still leave time to visit the second-hand bookstores, record shops, and cafes nearby.
Jhana Millers
Gallerist Jhana Millers has quickly become a pivotal player in Wellington’s creative scene, helping uncover many new artists. An accomplished artist herself, Millers opened her gallery in 2018 and has around 10 national artists on her books, as well as Australian painter Lucy O’Doherty.
The gallery is located on the first floor of the heritage listed Mibar building on Victoria Street, with large windows and a striking, somewhat brutalist concrete ceiling. Millers is always happy to have a chat and help you navigate through the sometimes murky waters of the art-collecting world to find something that suits both your taste and budget.
Female artists are well represented. Hanging until May 1 2023 are beautiful still-life paintings by Māori artist Ayesha Green, who’s just finished a residency at the prestigious McCahon House. Other artists whose works are available via catalogue are Claudia Kogachi, a talented painter who turned to rug tufting during Covid; abstract portrait painter Hannah Ireland, and sculptor Elisabeth Pointon.
Bartley & Company Art
Enigmatic and engaging art abounds at this long-standing Wellington gallery, which has recently moved from Ghuznee Street to more spacious premises on Garrett Street, in the Cuba Precinct.
Founded by gallerist Alison Bartley in 2009, Bartley & Company Art holds a new exhibition every month or so, showcasing works from both emerging and established contemporary New Zealand artists. Around 20 artists are represented by the gallery, including sculptors Mary-Louise Browne and Brett Graham, and Māori video artist Rachael Rakena. Read More…
