Stillness and Change: A Gallery in Motion

By Tasha Jenkins, Art Loans Manager, Art House Trust

The Arts House Trust is delighted to present a refreshed selection of modern and contemporary artworks from our collection in the stunning John Wilson Gallery. This contemplative space offers a unique setting for art, and we’re always heartened to hear from the Cathedral team about the many people—churchgoers, school groups, and other curious visitors—who take time to reflect on the works on display.

Garden/Light by Patrick Hanly positioned next to the Queen's Window by John Abramczyk.

For this new rotation, I’ve drawn inspiration from the gentler, more introspective mood of winter. Many of the selected pieces feature soft palettes and serene imagery: from the quiet grace of a lone horse and figure in Alan Ibell’s Threshold (White Horse), to the delicate brushwork and colours in Colin McCahon’s A poem of Kaipara Flat, 18, and the calm stillness captured in Melvin Day’s evocative window scene.

Adding a vibrant contrast, Philip Clairmont’s Clothesline no. II stands out with its energetic movement between abstraction and reality—a striking piece from one of New Zealand’s most celebrated artists. Another colourful piece is Ian Scott’s bold tribute to Rita Angus: a larger-than-life portrait set against a backdrop inspired by one of her own works, creating a powerful homage to two icons of art in Aotearoa.

One of the joys of curating in this space is the gallery’s generous wall height, which allows us to feature large-scale works that are rarely seen. Among these is a dynamic canvas by Philippa Blair, a remarkable New Zealand artist who passed away in 2025. I’m pleased to include her work in this showcase as a tribute to her talent and legacy.

As part of this rotation, it has been a special privilege to install two pieces by pioneering New Zealand ceramicist, Bronwynne Cornish. Cornish's unique perspective on mythology, ritual and the natural world seemed to lend itself perfectly to the environment of the Bishop Selwyn Chapel.

Perching Birdwoman on Volcanic Bomb II by Bronwynne Cornish in the Bishop Selwyn Chapel

These are just a few highlights from the new exhibition which is now viewable at Holy Trinity Cathedral, and I warmly invite you to visit and experience the full refresh in person. To learn more about the artworks or The Arts House Trust Collection, please feel free to get in touch via our website:

WEBSITE

Tasha Jenkins

Art Loans Manager

The Art House Trust

The John Wilson Art Gallery is open during Holy Trinity Cathedral regular visiting hours and is accessible through the Bishop Monteith Visitors’ Centre.