Most Aucklanders desperately avoid commuting congestion however; a new installation in the heart of the city ensures the energy of people on the move remains top of mind for urbanites.
Lauryne Hart’s Live, Work, Play series is captivating onlookers with the third piece, Mellow Days was installed in the foyer of the AIG building in Shortland Street, on September 25.
The 3800 x 1900mm acrylic on canvas adds to Hart’s Rush Hour – the second work of four, commissioned by Monterey Art Gallery for the building owner, Robt. Jones Holdings Limited.
Director of Monterey Art Gallery, Maureen Crombie says: “RJ Holdings has demonstrated the role business can play in supporting the arts and invigorating artists to take on new challenges.”
Rush Hour was installed in July and the first of the series, a 1900 x 1900mm acrylic on canvas, titled Small Talk was installed in April, 2015.
The Live, Work, Play theme realises the commonalities of inner-city life, which is full of colour, culture, diverse landscapes and scenes, and vitality.
Each painting shall resonate with Hart’s signature vibrant palette of current artwork creations that explore cultural diversity and the way people interact with each other.
Overall, the series will portray an energetic and vivid statement about hustle-bustle and enjoyment of city life to audiences both inside and outside the commercial property.
As well as Small talk, Rush Hour and Mellow Days – the final piece in the series includes another 3800 x 1900mm piece titled Sundown that will be installed by November 30.
There is excellent viewing from Pilkingtons bar, terrace and kitchen at 41 Shortland Street.

About Monterey Art Gallery

Located in Howick, Auckland, Monterey Art Gallery was bought by Maureen Crombie early in 2014.
The Monterey was the first gallery of its type in Auckland’s south-eastern suburbs and it continues to provide a unique New Zealand contemporary art experience.
Crombie is enthusiastic about creative talent and the gallery exhibits quality New Zealand artists’ paintings, glassworks, sculptures, ceramics and jewellery.
Consultation in homes or offices is recommended to ensure the chosen piece of art is the right one and Crombie arranges installations, for all size artworks.
A feature of the gallery is the large plaster ceiling dome, over which is painted Ricci, a beautiful baroque-style fresco by celebrated, award winning artist, Alvin Pankhurst.

About Lauryne Hart
People and the cultural elements they share are central to Lauryne Hart’s work.
The Auckland artist focuses on the diversity, beauty, character, vitality and emotions of people and aims to draw the viewer in with form, colour and expressions.
Publications:
• International Contemporary Artists, 2014, published in USA
• Who’s who in Visual Arts 2014 – international addition, published by Goette, Germany
• 2014 NZ Art Calendar, published by Blackfish, New Zealand
• Kiwi Diary 2013, published by Freda Wells, New Zealand

Awards:
• Finalist, Asia Pacific Clifton Art Awards, Auckland, 2014
• 3rd Place, Professional Oil/Acrylic section, New Zealand Easter Show, 2014
• Merit Award, Acrylic/Oil open section, New Zealand Easter Show, 2013
• Official Selection, International Palm Art Awards, Leipzig, 2011
• 1st Prize – OSFA, 2010
• 3rd Prize Oil and Acrylic open, Easter Show, 2010